Nepal context in 2024

 

WSF in Feb. 2024

In 2024, Nepal made progress despite political challenges, with efforts to address key issues like transitional justice and federal implementation. The rise of the Rastriya Swatantra Party showed that the youth are becoming more engaged in the political process. Nepal’s economy grew by 3.9%, driven by tourism, hydropower, and agriculture, and is expected to grow even further to 5.1% in 2025. The government also introduced the 16th periodic plan, which aims to improve social protection and support vulnerable groups. 

In 2024, Nepal made significant progress in improving labour rights through key international agreements and policy reforms. The government worked on agreements with ten countries to protect Nepali migrant workers, focusing on fair recruitment and better working conditions. While challenges remain, particularly in the informal sector, efforts are underway to address issues like exploitation and unsafe working conditions. The government is committed to tackling problems like bonded labour and continuing to improve labour laws for a better future.

In 2024, Nepal made great progress in expanding social security, with around 3.8 million citizens receiving allowances, which is a 5.5% increase from the previous year. The government has focused on both contributory and non-contributory schemes, prioritizing the elderly and planning to extend benefits to the children of contributors. While there are some challenges like raising awareness and ensuring long-term sustainability, efforts to improve local-level implementation and develop sustainable funding models are key to making social protection more inclusive and effective for all.