The story is getting old but still bears repeating. Remittance sent by migrant workers has been a lifeline for Nepal’s ailing economy for at least a couple of decades. Be it during an international economic recession, big natural disasters such as the devastating earthquakes back home in 2015 or prolonged crises like the Covid-19 pandemic, Nepal’s economy survived largely on the hard-earned money of migrant workers. They earned it by working in harsh conditions such as the scorching heat of the Gulf countries. Strict rules and regulations, language barriers and cultural gaps in the destination countries add to the challenge of their work and life. Though jobs in South Korea and Japan are considered attractive for Nepali youths, they often find the work there tougher than they had imagined.

A study titled ‘Health and wellbeing of Nepalese migrant workers in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: A mixed-methods study’ states “Nepali migrant workers experience severe weather conditions and suffer from various physical and mental health issues, including workplace abuse and exploitation.” Also, a large number of Nepali youths studying and working abroad in developed countries like the US, Australia and the European countries experience great mental stress, anxiety and financial pressure.

Besides the burden of the investment they make to find jobs and the harsh work conditions, migrant workers at times struggle with the separation with their loved ones such as spouse, parents, siblings and friends. In such a situation, arrangements like telecounseling can be a solace for them. Thus some initiatives taken by the Nepal government such as the telemedicine service are vital. This service is tailored to provide vital medical and psychological counseling to Nepalis living abroad. However, doctors, experts and officials working with migrant workers believe that while thousands of Nepalis staying abroad are in need of such services, the arrangements at present can’t serve many people. Such facilities are meaningful only when most migrant workers who need counseling can easily access it. This is why there is a strong case to be made for the expansion of these services so that they are more accessible, effective and reliable.

In this world of speedy communication and high mobility, no one can stop people from leaving the country to explore study and job opportunities abroad. Rather than complain about the youth exodus, the government’s policies, programmes and strategies should focus on encouraging them to return with skills and knowledge that would help them start entrepreneurship back home. For that, it helps if these workers and workers have an emotional connection with their homeland.

Seemingly a minor initiative, programmes like telemedicines could be a big help for Nepalis when they are in distress in a foreign country. Counselling from experts in their homeland can be of great comfort. Done well, it can help them stay connected with their home country and maintain a level of trust in their state agencies. Again, what better way to earn this trust than by helping them when they are at their most vulnerable!