Senior CPN leader Barshaman Pun says political stability, secure investment and fair labour practices are key to strengthening Nepalā€™s tourism and economy, urging parties to focus on upcoming elections.

KATHMANDU: Senior Nepali politician Barshaman Pun has said the state has a duty to protect both workers and employers, warning that political instability is hurting the countryā€™s labour sector and driving skilled workers abroad.

Speaking at a book launch in Kathmandu on Tuesday, Pun said the lack of a stable political environment has made investors hesitant, while many trained workers are leaving Nepal in search of better opportunities overseas.

He was addressing a programme organised by the All Nepal Hotel, Casino and Restaurant Workersā€™ Union to unveil Mirror of the Hotel Workersā€™ Movement, a book that documents the long struggle of workers in the hospitality industry.

Pun said Nepal could significantly strengthen its tourism industry and the wider economy by attracting more visitors from neighbouring India and China. But he stressed that this would only be possible if the country offered security for investment and decent working conditions.

Turning to politics, Pun said holding elections is essential for national stability and urged all parties to focus on the polls scheduled for February 21. He dismissed recent calls for the reinstatement of parliament as ā€œimmatureā€, adding that such a move would only become relevant if elections failed to take place a scenario he said should be avoided.

At the event, Jagat Simkhada, president of the All Nepal Trade Union Federation, said the book captures the hardships, protests and achievements of hotel and restaurant workers over the years. He said many workers still face insecurity due to the widespread use of contract labour, the absence of permanent jobs and weak implementation of social security.

Sangharsha Bista, president of the Restaurant and Bar Association Nepal (REBAN), welcomed the publication, saying cooperation between employers and workers is the only way to build a fair and sustainable labour sector. He also suggested that future editions address broader issues related to tourism.

Union president Kumar Pant said the organisation has long campaigned for the return of a 10% service charge, permanent positions for regular workers and full social security coverage. He said the book was published to preserve the history of those struggles.

The programme was attended by trade union leaders, labour representatives and figures from the hospitality and tourism sectors.