Ministers Discuss Foreign Labour Migration Issues

Three key ministers—Foreign Minister Dr Arzu Rana Deuba, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and Labour Minister Saratsingh Bhandari—held a joint meeting on Wednesday to discuss better coordination in addressing issues of Nepali migrant workers in destination countries.

The meeting, attended by secretaries from the three ministries, explored ideas for the effective management of foreign labour migration. Minister Deuba highlighted the challenge of rescuing undocumented Nepali women working as domestic workers in the Middle East, despite a government ban on such employment. She suggested reconsidering the ban to ensure women’s security and regulate their movement.

Home Minister Lekhak recommended amending the Foreign Labour Act 2064, while Labour Minister Bhandari emphasized the need for labour diplomacy. The meeting also addressed the plight of undocumented workers, rescue challenges, and the limited resources of diplomatic missions.