Labour migration continues to shape Nepal’s economy, with thousands of Nepalis seeking employment abroad, particularly in the Gulf countries and Malaysia. While migration has contributed significantly to national income, it has also left workers vulnerable to unsafe working conditions, inadequate legal protection, mental health challenges, and limited access to support services in destination countries. Addressing these issues requires stronger systems of protection and coordinated support for migrant workers.
To respond to these challenges, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Nepal, through its Migrant Rights and Decent Work (MiRiDeW) Project Phase II supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), has signed an agreement with the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA). The partnership aims to strengthen the capacity of NRNA’s National Coordination Councils (NCCs) in major destination countries, particularly in the Middle East and Malaysia, to deliver structured services and better advocacy for migrant workers.
The initiative focuses on capacity building, policy advocacy, and providing psychosocial and mental health support to vulnerable groups, especially women and undocumented workers. Awareness sessions, virtual outreach, and informational materials will be developed to ensure migrants have access to reliable support systems. Speaking at the signing, ILO Nepal Country Director Numan Özcan emphasized the need to build stronger institutions and services for migrants, noting that while they are the backbone of Nepal’s economy, they often face isolation and unsafe conditions abroad. This nine-month program, running from September 2025 to May 2026, builds on the successful collaboration between ILO and NRNA during the COVID-19 pandemic, when both organizations worked together to support stranded and vulnerable migrants.
Dr. Badri KC, President of NRNA’s International Coordination Council, highlighted the association’s two-decade history of serving Nepali migrants, with National Coordination Councils established in more than 90 countries and over 80,000 registered members. He reiterated NRNA’s role as a trusted partner of the Government of Nepal and affirmed its commitment to advancing migrant rights and welfare through this partnership.
The project will also strengthen coordination between NRNA representatives and Nepali diplomatic missions, ensuring migrants receive timely and reliable assistance. By institutionalizing existing support mechanisms within NRNA and NCCs, the initiative aims to build sustainable systems of protection.
This collaboration aligns with Nepal’s broader commitments to safeguard migrant workers and promote decent work, while also supporting ILO’s global agenda to advance fair and safe migration governance. Through joint efforts, both organizations seek to create a more empowered, protected, and resilient community of Nepali migrants worldwide.
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