Opinion

Awakening Nepal: A Stark Warning

Published On: September 20, 2023 09:30 AM NPT By: Prem Lamichhane


In the land of the Himalayas, where the majestic peaks have long symbolized the heights of human potential, Nepal finds itself at a perilous juncture. It's a nation yearning for change, crying out against corruption that has tainted our very identity on the global stage. As we look towards our neighbors, China and India, marching confidently into the future, we must ask ourselves: Where do we stand today? Are we harnessing the potential of our youth, or are we perpetuating a culture of corruption that threatens to engulf us?

Nepal's exodus of talent, particularly among the youth, is a stark reflection of our current predicament. Almost one-third of our population has ventured abroad, seeking education and employment opportunities, all in the quest for a better life for themselves and their families. Those who make it to developed countries often secure permanent residency and citizenship, taking their families along, resulting in a diminishing flow of remittances back home. In contrast, those who head to the Gulf or neighboring countries can only send money to their loved ones, unable to reunite with them.

What's even more alarming is that despite the growing number of Nepali expatriates, remittances to Nepal are gradually decreasing. This economic lifeline, which has sustained many households, is dwindling before our very eyes. It's a serious issue that cannot be ignored.

Nepal, like many countries, has a predominantly youthful population, with the majority aged between 16 and 49. This demography should be our greatest strength, but it is being sapped as our young minds seek opportunities abroad. As they depart, a vacuum is created, one that is often exploited by corrupt politicians and bureaucrats.

Regrettably, we have reached a point where there is little motivation for our young people to stay in Nepal. The exceptions are those entrenched in the political and bureaucratic machinery, who often seem to thrive on corruption and the misuse of power. Many of these politicians send their children to expensive boarding schools and then send them abroad, setting a discouraging example for our youth.

It's disheartening to note that there is a noticeable lack of pride in the accomplishments of our young generation within our own country. Instead of nurturing and harnessing their talents, we find ourselves pushing them away, leaving them with no choice but to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Life in Nepal is marked by numerous hardships, and our politicians often appear indifferent to the suffering of the common people. The absence of a functional rule of law and visionary leadership has created an environment where those with good intentions are silenced or imprisoned. These discouraging factors have forced many to abandon their homeland in search of a better life.

If developed countries were to extend the offer of free visas and tickets to Nepali citizens, it is a grim reality that our nation would be left hollow, populated primarily by the corrupt. Few would choose to stay when opportunities and justice beckon elsewhere. This is not a recipe for national development; it is a blueprint for stagnation and decay.

Nepal's awakening must begin with a collective effort to combat corruption, promote transparency, and create an environment where our youth can thrive. We need leaders with vision and integrity who can harness the potential of our nation's young minds. It's time for us to come together, to reject the allure of corruption, and to build a Nepal where our youth can flourish and contribute to the prosperity of our nation.

As we issue this stark warning to corrupt politicians, we must also remind them of the world-class Nepali talent that resides in various corners of the globe. Nepali individuals have made significant contributions to the development of foreign nations over the past two decades. It's time for our leaders to envision a different path—one that involves collaborating with these innovative minds and channeling their ideas and expertise towards building Nepal.

These individuals don't require financial incentives; they are already thriving abroad. What they need is an environment that appreciates their skills and fosters their desire to contribute to the development of our homeland. The choice is clear: act now or risk losing all Nepalis to foreign lands. Prepare to face the consequences of your actions and the legacy of corruption you have left behind.

Nepal stands at a critical juncture. Will we allow corruption to define our nation's identity on the global stage, or will we rise to the occasion and build a brighter future for our youth? The choice rests with our leaders, and their decisions today will shape the destiny of our beloved Nepal. It's time to awaken to the call of duty and create a nation that we can be proud to call home.


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