Saudi Arabia Imposes Controversial Skill Certification Program on Nepali Workers
Summary
Saudi Arabia has forcibly imposed the Skill Certification Program on Nepali workers despite opposition from Nepal's government and entrepreneurs, adding significant fees and burden to workers.
Key Points
- Saudi Arabia has imposed the Skill Certification Program (SVP) on Nepali workers despite strong opposition from Nepal's Ministry of Youth, Labour and Employment and overseas employment entrepreneurs.
- The program requires Nepali workers to pay between 50 to 100 US dollars in fees through private companies, bypassing official Saudi government channels, causing outrage.
- Nepal's Ministry of Youth, Labour and Employment has made diplomatic efforts to stop the program due to its financial burden and improper implementation without prior agreement.
- The unilateral imposition of the program has strained diplomatic relations and violated the labor agreement signed between Nepal and Saudi Arabia in January, which requires joint discussion before implementing recruitment-related changes.
