The Nepali soldiers have left an indelible mark in the global arena with unsung heroism, breaking boundaries far and wide. Renowned for the bravery of the “Gurkhas” soldiers, Nepal has a centuries-old history of contributing to foreign armies. Over the years, formal agreements have paved the way for Nepali nationals to serve in the armies of India and Britain. Despite Nepal being the second-largest contributor of troops to the United Nations Peacekeeping Missions globally , the absence of bilateral agreements beyond these individual nations and the UN framework raises pertinent questions about the silent sacrifices made by Nepali youths in foreign military ventures. This phenomenon beckons a closer look, shedding light on the gifts of dedication and service that extend silently and steadily beyond the borders.

Gurkhas and Their Courageous Legacy

The historical ties of the Gurkhas to foreign armies are rooted in Nepal’s martial tradition, which included internal conflicts and attempted alliances with Tibet and China in 1791. Following the heroic deeds of the Gurkha soldiers in the war with the British East India Company, the establishment of the ‘Gurkha Rifle’ in 1815 marked the beginning of a 208-year-old remarkable tradition. This legacy was further cemented by the Tripartite Agreement of 1947, which formalized the treaty, allowing Nepalis to serve in the British and Indian armies. The dedication of the Gurkhas is reflected in their participation in 17 significant conflicts on behalf of Britain, ranging from the Battle of Pindari to World Wars I and II. They have also served in Hong Kong, Iraq, and Afghanistan. This commitment remains today, with more than 4,000 Nepali citizens serving in the British Army and 35,000 in the Indian Gorkha Regiment, demonstrating Nepal's ongoing and entrenched relationship with these foreign military institutions.

Nepali Youths in Unofficial Military Alliances

The involvement of Nepali youth in unofficial military alliances reflects a blend of historical heritage and modern choices. The Gurkha soldiers' enduring tradition, known for heroism and sacrifice, provides today's Nepali youth with an unconventional path into foreign armies. Yet, a concerning trend emerges as Nepali individuals enlist in foreign armies without official authorization, notably in the Russian, US, and French armies, including the Foreign Legion, creating legal and diplomatic complexities due to the absence of formal agreements between Nepal and these nations.

This trend prompts questions about the motivations and potential risks of these choices. The lack of official agreements raises legal and diplomatic concerns, as these individuals operate without Nepal's formal consent. Understanding the root causes requires carefully examining socio-economic factors, aspirations, and the adventurous spirit that drives Nepali youth to explore foreign military alliances. Addressing these contemporary challenges is crucial, requiring policymakers to develop informed strategies that acknowledge the historical influence of the Gurkha legacy while safeguarding the interests and well-being of Nepali citizens involved in unauthorized enlistments abroad.

Why Nepali Youth Seek Opportunities Abroad

The decision of Nepali youth to explore unconventional paths abroad, particularly in foreign military service, is primarily driven by economic hardships within their homeland. Facing high unemployment rates, meager wages, and limited military opportunities domestically, young Nepalese are drawn by the promises of employment, attractive pay, and even citizenship in countries like Russia. The willingness to join various armies, regardless of ideological affiliations, reflects the significance of gaining respect and fair compensation. Simultaneously, the pursuit of quality education propels Nepali students to seek opportunities overseas, fueled by the privatization of health and academic institutions and the rising costs associated with inflation. Developed nations, offering enticing incentives in terms of health and education, become appealing options for Nepali citizens, with the allure of the Western lifestyle, advanced infrastructure, cleanliness, towering buildings, and higher earnings acting as compelling magnets. Despite the inherent challenges of hard work, the prospect of earning more money in a systematic foreign environment remains preferable to the dissatisfaction of working for less in an unsystematized setting in their home country.

The struggles faced by Nepali youth are particularly evident in Russia's endeavors to address its military strength deficit during the conflict with Ukraine. Introducing a simplified enlistment process and attractive salary incentives successfully draws foreign nationals, including Nepali youths, into the Russian army. The recent Balkumari incident, where two Nepali youths lost their lives protesting to work abroad, starkly illustrates Nepal's challenges in effectively utilizing its human resources. The Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE) spokesperson, Gurudatta Subedi, underscores the critical condition of the country's labor force with a significant increase in workers seeking foreign employment. The trend of Nepali youths settling abroad after studying on student visas further complicates the motivations behind seeking opportunities beyond their borders, emphasizing the complex interplay between economic struggles, educational aspirations, and the lure of a better life abroad.

Government's Response

Addressing the challenges of high youth emigration rates, the Nepali government recognizes issues like limited job opportunities, low wages, and political instability. It acknowledges that seeking opportunities abroad, including foreign military service, is a personal choice or necessity for some, with awareness of the economic impact of remittances. Nepal's commitment to the principles of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), enshrined in its constitution, emphasizes a non-aligned stance, with Foreign Minister NP Saud reiterating this during a recent NAM ministerial meeting in Uganda. However, while the government has taken decisive measures in response to citizens joining foreign militaries, especially in Russia and Ukraine, the challenges of navigating the complex Russia-Ukraine conflict while maintaining neutrality remain. Despite these complexities, the government reaffirms its stance against citizens joining foreign armies without proper agreements, shedding light on the nuanced considerations within Nepal's policies and diplomatic endeavors.

A Plea for Responsible Action

The story of silent heroes beyond borders calls for reflection on the shared responsibility to protect the lives and aspirations of the next generation. In addressing the recruitment of Nepali citizens into foreign military service, it is imperative for the government to actively engage with the Russian government and advocate for a cautious approach on international platforms. Simultaneously, establishing clear communication channels with embassies in conflict zones and implementing travel restrictions ensures responsible engagement with Nepali citizens, prioritizing their safety and instilling a sense of responsibility. Recognizing the need to address the root causes of emigration, there is a critical call for the government to shift focus towards creating more domestic opportunities and improving conditions at home.

Effectively tackling the challenge of Nepali youths seeking unconventional military paths abroad necessitates a dual focus on internal economic reforms. This involves directing investments into skill development and job creation while collaborating with NGOs to raise awareness about unauthorized foreign military service risks. Diplomatic efforts should concentrate on negotiating bilateral agreements, establishing legal frameworks to protect citizens' rights, and discouraging them from pursuing perilous paths abroad. A plea for responsible action endeavors to safeguard lives and create a supportive environment that discourages risky choices, fostering sustainable opportunities at home.

Published on: 24 January 2024 | My Republica