PODS by PEI Project Sambaad -Between Rhetoric and Reality: An Evidence-Based Conversation on the State of Nepal's Labor Migration
Despite the inflow of remittance that keeps the country afloat, migration is considered a net loss for Nepal. To move beyond this persistent rhetoric of loss, Project Sambaad brought together migration scholars Amina Maharjan, a Senior Specialist at ICIMOD, and Slesh Shrestha, a former economics Professor at the National University of Singapore, for an evidence-based conversation on the state of Nepal’s labor migration. The conversation was moderated by Sadikshya Bhattarai, research coordinator at Social Science Baha/CESLAM.
Amina and Slesh highlighted the economic benefits of migration, emphasizing the return of skilled workers with valuable experience. The conversation noted that Nepal's competitive advantage lies in supplying cheap labor, which can be optimized through stronger government-to-government relationships to improve work contracts. They evaluated recent local government efforts to halt migration and addressed the debate on remittance usage.
argued against local governments' efforts to halt migration, suggesting instead programs for skill development and support for returned migrants to start businesses. They also addressed the debate on remittance usage, highlighting investments in education as productive.
Both speakers criticized media narratives for perpetuating negative views of migration, emphasizing its transformative potential for individuals and the economy. They also discussed challenges in mapping migration patterns due to social relations crossing borders. The discussion concluded with engaging interactions between the speakers and the audience.
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