Dhaka – In light of the many challenges faced in the South Asian region with regards to migrant workers, the European Union Delegation to Nepal hosted a regional seminar on “Making Labour Migration Easy and Safe in South Asia” in Kathmandu, on December 2, with the support of DAI Europe and Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS).The event brought together participants from government institutions, institutes, think-tanks, civil society, media, migration associations, private sector, international community, SAARC Secretariat and international participants including EU Delegations to India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Dr. Swarnim Wagle, Member of National Planning Commission of Nepal was the Chief Guest at the inaugural ceremony. Rensje Teenrink, EU Ambassador to Nepal and SAARC, Rita Dhital, Director, SAARC Secretariat spoke on the occasion among others.
The European Union not only funds a number of migration related programmes aimed at facilitating and enhancing the management of labour migration between South and Southeast Asia and selected countries in the EU, and supports mechanisms and awareness leading to safe migration, but also ensures continuing policy dialogue in line with the Global Approach to Migration and Mobility (GAMM).
Looking at the challenges of Labour Migration in the South Asian region, solutions for protecting migrants were discussed during the seminar. Speakers conversed on how migration flow facilitates extensive benefits to migrants, such as remittances and cross-sharing of skills, while challenges remain as migrants are exposed to many risks such as abuse, poor working conditions or difficulty to access their rights and protection. As per the discussions, information regarding qualifications, skills and wages need to ensure informed decisions by public and private institutions as well as by migrant
The Media was also noted to play a role in promoting safer migration by raising the awareness of the public by advocating for better policies and practices, and by facilitating discussions on this arena.
The European Union is committed to continued cooperation with the South Asian nations to make the lives of labour migrants easier and safer and for continuing the policy dialogue.
Together, during a period of enlargement of 50 years, they have built a zone of stability, democracy and sustainable development whilst maintaining cultural diversity, tolerance and individual freedoms. The European Union is committed to sharing its achievements and its values with countries and peoples beyond its borders. It is the largest donor of development and humanitarian aid in the world. – Press release
