Western Nepal has a high number of labor migrants moving to India. Most are low-skilled workers from marginalized communities such as Dalits and Janjatis living in rural areas. For many, migration is the only way to support their families financially. Women, in particular, face serious risks along these migration routes, including discrimination, exploitation, and violence. A lack of information also makes migrants especially vulnerable to human trafficking.
To address these challenges, AWO International and the Nepalese partner organization National Environment and Equity Development Society (NEEDS Nepal) launched a joint project. Since 2015, both organizations have been working to promote safe migration and create local opportunities for people to stay.
Awareness and Protection Along Migration Routes
A key element of the project is awareness-raising. Along three major transit routes between Nepal and India, migration information centers provide vital support: potential migrants and returnees receive important information about safe migration pathways. Schools also play a role, where students are educated about migration-related issues.
In the past, we were shy and didn't talk about important things like migrating to India. Our husbands didn’t share information about where they stayed or worked in India. It was dangerous because we didn't know where they were if something happened. Now we talk openly. In the group, we are like a family – we trust each other and share the same understanding about saving. Together we can change our village.
Participant in the Women Empowerment Group
Media Campaigns and Creative Awareness-Raising
In addition, radio broadcasts, local campaigns, and public theater performances are used to reach as many people as possible. These activities raise awareness among the population and help reduce the risks associated with migration.
New Perspectives at Home
Another key goal of the project is to offer alternatives to migration. Through skills training – both in agriculture and other fields – migrants and returnees are given the opportunity to earn their own income. In 2024 alone, around 280 families took part in these trainings. The project also supports small and micro enterprises. Those affected by exploitation or violence can access psychosocial and legal support through local counseling centers.
With this comprehensive approach, AWO International and NEEDS Nepal are working together to promote safe migration and better future prospects for people in Nepal.
The migrant information centers provide both potential migrants and returnees with helpful information. It is also a point of contact for victims of human trafficking. In 2024, 38 stranded migrants received emergency assistance here: travel and food costs were covered so that they could reach their home country safely from the India-Nepal transit point.
The project is also setting up micro-credit programmes. Members of the groups pay in a monthly amount of around 1 euro. Families in crisis can then access a loan.
As part of the project, migrant families are given goats to improve their income situation.
As part of our education and awareness-raising activities, we organise public celebrations of action days, such as the National Day Against Human Trafficking.
Projectinfo
| Place/Region | Dadeldhura District in Sudurpaschim Province |
|---|---|
| Partner | National Environment and Equity Development Society (NEEDS) |
| Activities |
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| Duration | January 2026 - December 2028 |
| Budget | 338.700€ |
| Sponsor | Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) |