After rigorous preparation, Amnesty International Nepal launched the first phase of its nationwide ‘Caravan’ campaign in the eastern region of the country from Kakarvitta on July 20, 2017. The drive aims to make people at the local level aware about the rights of migrant workers, and engage with concerned authorities on how to address the woes of Nepali migrant workers.
Members of groups and youth networks of AI Nepal and its Board and Secretariat staff carried the slogan vocal for protection of rights of migrant workers. The campaign started from Kakarvitta, Birtamod, Damak and Biratnagar on the first day, and continued to Itahari, Rajbiraj, Inaruwa and Lahaan on the second day. Here, newly elected representatives including mayors and ward chairpersons were actively involved in extensive interactions, while rallies and signature collections were held with people from all walks of life. After traversing Janakpur, Jaleshwor and Laalbandi on the third and final day, over 4,000 signatures expressing support for the cause had been collected. Newly formed local governments have expressed commitment to do the needful to address the concerns of migrant workers.
The second phase of the campaign in the western region will commence on 28 July, 2017.