Nepalis are increasingly seeking opportunities for education, business, and employment globally. However, they face significant challenges in many countries due to rising anti-immigrant violence and conflicts often sanctioned by states, leading to crises for Nepali communities abroad.
Migration, both within and across borders, is a universal human phenomenon, integral to the progression of civilization. Throughout history, different groups have moved to new places, sometimes arriving before others, with earlier arrivals considered natives and later ones seen as immigrants. This natural movement of people has been a consistent feature of human history.
Unfortunately, in various parts of the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and even Nepal, negative attitudes, discrimination, and violence against those who appear different are becoming increasingly common. This goes against the fundamental principles of human coexistence.
For instance, in Southport, England, on July 29, a young man tragically stabbed and killed three girls, sparking violent demonstrations. Misinformation spread by right-wing groups claiming the perpetrator was a Muslim refugee fueled attacks against immigrant and Muslim communities across cities like London and Liverpool. The actual cause of this violence—a criminal mindset unrelated to race, religion, or community—was overshadowed by the targeting of minorities.
Discrimination against immigrants, minorities, and black communities is prevalent in various countries. Even in nations perceived as economically and educationally advanced, such as the United States, racial violence persists. The death of George Floyd, an African American man who died while in police custody in May 2020, highlighted systemic racism. His plea, “I can’t breathe,” became a global rallying cry, and the “Black Lives Matter” movement emerged in response to this persistent racial violence.
In neighboring India, violence fueled by caste and religious divisions is also rampant. The ongoing conflict between the majority Maitei community and the minority Kuki in Manipur is a recent example. Prior violent outbreaks in Delhi, Muzaffarnagar, Gujarat, Mumbai, and Ayodhya have left deep scars. Such incidents tarnish India’s reputation as a democratic nation on the global stage.
The politics of oppression and violence against minorities is both troubling and ironic. These actions are often driven by an organized effort to convince the majority that they are under threat from the minority, leading to increased intolerance and violence. This same mentality drives discrimination against Hindu minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, as well as against Muslims in India. Such dynamics can even manifest in Nepal in the form of religious and ethnic intolerance.
Discriminating against people based on their race, language, or religion contradicts both religious teachings and universal human rights principles. A majority group in one country can easily become a minority in another, highlighting the need for tolerance and respect in all societies. Unfortunately, today’s society often fails in this responsibility.
Migration is a fundamental human behavior, with people historically moving in search of better opportunities. However, in today’s world, immigration has become a contentious issue, manipulated by those seeking to gain political power by instilling fear in the majority population. This has led to conflicts in many societies. To counter this, political parties and civil societies must work to protect minorities in every country.
Nepalis, like others, are pursuing opportunities worldwide but are encountering significant hardships due to anti-immigrant violence and wars. Nepalis have been directly or indirectly affected by conflicts and violence in countries like Britain, Bangladesh, Israel, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The fate of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali captured by Hamas militants in Israel, remains unknown, and 36 Nepalis have been confirmed dead in the Russia-Ukraine war. Despite these tragedies, the Nepali government has not taken effective action or coordinated efforts to protect its citizens abroad. This lack of initiative needs urgent correction.
