Bridging borders: How the Nepali diaspora shapes Nepal’s future

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) was founded in 2003 with a heartfelt mission: to unite Nepalis living abroad and ensure their contributions play a vital role in shaping the future of Nepal. The NRNA is dedicated to protecting the rights and welfare of Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs), promoting cultural identity, and empowering them to be active participants in nation-building. As the Nepali diaspora continues to expand, NRNA’s role has become increasingly significant, bridging the gap between NRNs and Nepal, fostering a relationship that benefits both.

Currently, over 7 million Nepalis reside abroad, primarily in regions like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America, each seeking better opportunities, education, or simply a chance to escape socio-political instability at home. Every day, more than 2,500 young Nepalis set out on this journey, facing a host of challenges, from legal issues and exploitative working conditions to cultural adjustments. NRNA, with its extensive global network, provides vital support during these tough times, offering legal assistance, repatriation efforts, and crisis intervention. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, NRNA was instrumental in helping stranded Nepalis navigate visa problems and financial crises.

While these migrants pursue better lives, they often encounter harsh realities, especially in Gulf countries, where long working hours and minimal legal protections are common. Currently, Nepali citizens can work in 178 countries with individual permits, but only a handful of intergovernmental labor agreements provide adequate protections for foreign workers. This situation underscores the need for better safeguards and support systems for our fellow citizens abroad. The remittances sent back home by NRNs are crucial to Nepal’s economy, amounting to around USD 11 billion in 2023 and making up over 26% of the country’s GDP. However, much of this money is spent on daily needs rather than invested in long-term growth, like entrepreneurship or infrastructure.

A vital aspect of NRNA’s mission is to preserve the rich tapestry of Nepali culture among those living abroad. Through festivals, language programs, and cultural events, NRNA helps ensure that younger generations retain their Nepali identity, even as they grow up immersed in different cultures. The “Once Nepali, Always Nepali” campaign is a beautiful initiative that fosters unity and pride within the diaspora, reinforcing the idea that no matter where they are, Nepalis carry a piece of their homeland with them. This sense of belonging inspires many NRNs to invest in their homeland and contribute to its development.

Many NRNs are returning home to invest in sectors like real estate, tourism, agriculture, and technology, bringing fresh ideas and experiences that can help modernize these industries. Areas such as hydropower, renewable energy, and infrastructure are particularly promising for NRN investments, which are essential for Nepal’s growth and job creation.

Moreover, NRNs serve as ambassadors for Nepal, promoting tourism, business opportunities, and cultural diplomacy across the globe. Their participation in international events, business forums, and cultural exhibitions enhances Nepal’s visibility and reputation, attracting foreign investment and forging valuable international partnerships. By strengthening ties between Nepal and their host countries, NRNs facilitate cultural exchanges and economic collaboration.

Looking ahead, the next decade holds tremendous potential for the Nepali diaspora. With continued success in various industries, including technology, education, and entrepreneurship, NRNs will further elevate Nepal’s presence on the global stage. NRNA will be crucial in ensuring that these contributions are effectively channeled towards national development, and collaboration between NRNs and the government will be essential for driving innovation and maximizing the impact of the diaspora.

To combat the ongoing issue of mass migration, the government must take proactive measures to retain young talent. Every day, thousands of skilled young Nepalis leave for opportunities abroad, and to reverse this trend, the government needs to invest in job creation, infrastructure, and entrepreneurial programs that offer viable prospects within Nepal. Creating a business-friendly environment and promoting professional growth are critical steps in retaining our talented workforce.

A proposed action plan for collaboration between NRNA and the government includes advocating for policy reforms to harness the skills, wealth, and knowledge of NRNs for national development. This involves establishing a dedicated department to manage and integrate diaspora contributions, forming a think tank of NRNs and policymakers to create actionable strategies, and enhancing the role of Nepali diplomatic missions in supporting diaspora engagement. Together, these initiatives can foster a more productive relationship between the diaspora and the nation, contributing to long-term growth.

With over 7 million Nepalis living abroad, the diaspora represents a remarkable resource for our country’s economic, social, and cultural development. While remittances are a significant boon to the economy, we have the opportunity to channel these funds into more productive avenues. NRNA, in collaboration with the government, plays a crucial role in ensuring that the skills and resources of NRNs are utilized for sustainable growth. By implementing thoughtful policies and creating an environment conducive to diaspora engagement, we can build a brighter future for Nepal together. Through collaboration and a shared vision, the Nepali diaspora and the government can work hand in hand to forge a prosperous and self-sustaining future for our beloved nation.

(The author is the Deputy General Secretary and Past Chair of the Foreign Employment Relief Funds of the International Coordination Council, Non-Resident Nepali Association.)