active· Governance

More effective labour migration governance frameworks, institutions and services to protect Nepali workers' rights

During formulation of the DWCP (2023-2027) for Nepal, the social partners along with the government identified the protection of Nepali migrant workers as a top priority. Labor migration forms an integral part of Nepali economy. In recent years, Nepal is issuing labour approvals to over 800,000 Nepali workers going abroad for employment through regular pathway. Nepal received workers remittances above USD 12 billion during last fiscal year 2024-25, and the income is distributed among 76 per cent of households. The foreign currency received through the remittances is primarily fuelling the import-based economy. While the government prioritizes employment creation within Nepal, it also recognizes the continued importance of labour migration and remains committed to protecting the rights of migrant workers through safe, orderly, and regular migration. This commitment is reflected in national plans and policies, including the 16th National Plan and the National Labour Migration Policy 2025. Labour migration remains a priority area for the ILO in Nepal. The ILO supports the federal and selected provincial governments in implementing key elements of the National Labour Migration Policy 2025, engages with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) to facilitate new bilateral labour agreements with destination countries, and continuously generates evidence for advocacy to promote fair recruitment principles, including through capacity building of government institutions and private recruitment agencies. It also collaborates closely with MoLESS to ensure that provisions for migrant workers and returnees are duly integrated into the Operational Procedure for Employment Service Centres (ESCs) currently under development. ILO continues collaborating with MoLESS, MoFA, provincial and local governments, Nepal Association of Foreign Employment Agencies, other private actors, trade unions and CSOs for the results.