Rapid assessment of the impact of COVID-19 on private recruitment agencies in Nepal

This assessment highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the recruitment industry in Nepal.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of human life including the world of work. Migrant workers appeared to be one of the most vulnerable groups. Use of services of Private Recruitment Agencies (PRAs) is the most prevalent approach among Nepali migrant workers when seeking foreign employment.

In response to the pandemic, the Integrated Programme on Fair Recruitment (FAIR), funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, launched a study in August 2020 to understand the way in which the recruitment industry in Nepal has been impacted by the pandemic. This report summarizes the findings of the assessment and identifies a number of key recommendations to assist the government and other stakeholders to ensure fair recruitment for migrant workers moving forward.