Freed Haliya Families Still Face Systemic Barriers, New ILO Study Finds

Kathmandu – A new study released by the International Labour Organization (ILO) reveals that thousands of formerly bonded Haliya families in Karnali Province continue to face significant challenges despite the abolition of the Haliya system in 2008 and the subsequent introduction of a government rehabilitation framework in 2013.

The report titled “Analysis of situation of the freed-Haliyas in Karnali Province of Nepal” examines the socio-economic and political realities of freed Haliya families in Surkhet, Jajarkot, and Humla districts. It finds that while most verified families received some government assistance, many continue to live without secure housing, access to basic services, or sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The study also highlights troubling findings on the prevalence of child labour, including in hazardous forms of labour. “More than a decade after Nepal’s historic decision to abolish the Haliya system, the promise of full rehabilitation and inclusion remains unrealized for many,” said Numan Özcan, Director of the ILO Country Office for Nepal. “This report is a mirror and a roadmap. It reflects the urgent need for coordinated, rights-based action to promote social and economic justice.”
The report was prepared by the ILO Country Office for Nepal in collaboration with the Purple Foundation and with support from the United States Department of Labor and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Among the report’s key recommendations are: improving the targeting and delivery of rehabilitation packages, enhancing access to vocational training and social protection, addressing gender and caste-based discrimination, and strengthening labour inspection systems.

Furthermore, the Report calls for a rights-based approach to rehabilitation, one that ensures not only access to land and housing, but also to education, healthcare, sustainable livelihoods, and political voice.
The ILO expresses gratitude to the freed Haliya families and communities who shared their experiences, and reaffirms its commitment to supporting efforts that uphold freedom, dignity, and decent work for all.
The report serves a guide for government agencies at all levels, development partners, and civil society actors to reinvigorate efforts, build inclusive systems and a future where every individual can live and work in freedom, dignity, and hope.