Nepal has two decades to turn its youth bulge into an economic dividend, World Bank reports
Summary
Nepal has over two decades to turn its growing working-age population into economic gains before the demographic advantage fades, but weak job creation, healthcare and social protection could limit the payoff. A World Bank report says the country must expand productive jobs and prepare for a rapidly ageing population.
Key Points
- Nepal’s working-age population is expected to peak in 2047, giving the country a limited window to benefit from a demographic dividend before it becomes an aged society in 2059.
- The World Bank says weak employment generation, gender inequality, poor healthcare access and limited retirement protection could prevent Nepal from converting its youth bulge into sustained growth.
- Remittances have supported poverty reduction, but returnee migrants often struggle to find productive jobs at home, while women face care burdens and lower labour participation.
- The report urges Nepal to expand social insurance, improve skills and job placement, strengthen healthcare, and preserve the Senior Citizen’s Allowance as the population ages.
