Addressing the programme that had National Network for Safe Migration and People’s Forum for Human Rights as organisers, Binod KC, joint secretary at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, said people associated with the foreign employment sector should take the programmes at the village level.

 

NGOs have taken initiatives in this direction, but the efforts will come to an end once they shut their offices, KC said, adding, “That is why we need to raise awareness at the grassroots.” We plan to mobilise schoolteachers to disseminate information on foreign employment-related issues as part of the awareness initiative, he said.

 

MoLE has recently prepared an action plan to make foreign employment safer and more reliable, KC informed.

 

Nirmala Sharma, president of the Sancharika Samuha, said the government should be more sensitive towards cases of women labourers in foreign employment. She said, “Women in foreign employment are more vulnerable these days, therefore the government should take initiatives for their safety in foreign land.” Other speakers called on the government to play a proactive role in implementing the High Level Taskforce’s action plan and suggestions.

 

They urged the government to do every bit to save migrant workers and safeguard their interests.