The government, International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the European Union on Friday held a joint consultation on labor migration aiming to integrate it as a formal sector into the country´s economy. 

Globally, integration of labor migration in economic policy and programs is considered crucial for development in education, agriculture, health, youth employment, governance and migrants´ rights among others. However, Nepal has largely left the issue unattended, even though some 3.5 million Nepalis are estimated to be in foreign jobs.

According to a press statement, the high-level consultation brought to the fore the complexities faced by the development partners and the government in managing development amid huge labor migration and lack of recognition of labor migration as formal sector of economy.

Dr Alexander Spachis, Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Nepal expressed the EU´s interest to work with the government on the issue and incorporate labor migration management into development assistance programs.

“Given the increasing recognition of the centrality of labor migration to Nepal´s economy and to the livelihoods of millions of its citizens, I anticipate that our joint interest in this area will deepen in coming years,” the statement quoted Spachis as saying. 

Rabab Fatima, IOM regional coordinator and advisor for South Asia, made presentation on the challenges and best practices on labor migration management. 

Posta Bahadur Bogati, Minister for Labour and Employment also stressed on the need to seriously discuss the matter. 

“When well-managed, migration becomes a choice and not a necessity, it benefits not only the workers, but also the country,” said Bogati, adding that improved coordination on the issue would enhance Nepal´s overall development.

In the same note, Secretary for Labour and Employment, Som Lal Subedi expressed the hope that the consultation would initiate wider discussions, cooperation and the development of an action-oriented programs to enhance and better coordinate labor migration management into development assistance programs in Nepal.

Published On: 24 November 2012 | Republica