In today’s increasingly globalized and interconnected world in which more people migrate than ever before in human history, young migrants have become powerful agents of positive change and development. 

Every year, August 12th is celebrated as International Youth Day. This year, the world highlights the importance of engaging, enabling and empowering youth to fulfill their development potential, focusing on ‘Youth Migration and Development'. Young migrants, alone or accompanied by family members, leave their homes for different reasons, for example in search of employment or fleeing from discrimination 

An estimated 400,000 young people enter the labour market each year in Nepal and, in the absence of decent employment opportunities within the country, particularly in rural areas, migration to India and overseas for employment has become an increasingly attractive option as well as a last resort for many youths. The Department of Foreign Employment estimates that around 1,500 young Nepalese leave for employment to countries other than India each day. The total that have received formal approval to leave numbers 2.08 million. The Ministry of Labour and Employment also estimates that a similar number have gone overseas for employment through informal channels. As youth migration has risen through both regular and irregular channels, safe and regular migration needs to be promoted in order to reduce the risks of exploitation and abuse. Sharing information on migration options is essential in this endeavor as it increases awareness and enables youth to make well-informed decisions.

It is crucial that youth are aware of the risks and opportunities of migration, that their voices are heard throughout all parts of society, and that they are empowered to influence their own lives and shape their futures – wherever it may be. Viable and safe alternatives to migration such as local livelihood opportunities, financial literacy initiatives and entrepreneurship need to be developed. 

Engaging and including youth in migration debates and policies is essential in the enhancement of development. In today’s increasingly globalized and interconnected world, youth represent the most interconnected generation of all. Young migrants need to be given opportunities to participate, to express themselves, to be listened to and to have their needs and interests taken into account. Social inclusion of migrant youth helps shape positive attitudes among migrants and native youth alike and brings down social barriers of xenophobia, marginalization and discrimination.

Published on: 12 August 2013 | The Himalayan Times