In a surprising development, a considerable number of young Nepalese individuals have been drawn into the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The majority have aligned themselves with Russian forces, while a smaller group is fighting for Ukraine. This has raised both ethical and political concerns in Nepal, a country already grappling with high unemployment rates.
Binoj Basnyat, a former Nepalese general who now works as a researcher at Rangsit University in Thailand, highlighted the grim economic landscape in Nepal. He noted that of the 500,000 young people entering the job market each year, only about 80,000 to 100,000 find employment within the country. This dire situation has led many to seek alternative paths, including joining foreign military forces.
Russian authorities have seized this opportunity, offering financial incentives to Nepalese youth willing to serve in their military operations in Ukraine, according to the New York Times. According to confidential documents and interviews with families, the majority of these young men have opted to fight for Russia. However, a smaller faction has enlisted in the Foreign Legion to fight for Ukraine, raising concerns among Nepalese officials about the potential for internal conflict among their citizens abroad.
Rajendra Bajgain, a member of Nepal’s ruling coalition, expressed his concerns about this trend. He stated that if it continues, Nepalese individuals could end up fighting against each other on foreign soil. While Nepal has chosen to maintain a neutral stance, refusing to participate in economic sanctions against Russia, it has condemned the escalating violence by Russian forces at the United Nations. This position contrasts with that of India, which has been more lenient towards Russia.
The influx of foreign fighters, including those from Nepal, has surged following an announcement by Russian President Vladimir Putin, wrote Radio Free Europe. He declared that foreign nationals serving in the Russian military for a year would be eligible for expedited citizenship. This policy has attracted not only Nepalese but also individuals from countries like India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Family members of the Nepalese recruits revealed that the training period was brief and inadequate, with recruits quickly being deployed to the front lines. This hasty preparation raises questions about the ethical implications of such recruitment practices. According to reports, the Russian Ministry of Defense’s recruitment program has seen enrollees from various countries, who find themselves engaged in combat in Ukraine within a month of joining.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, the involvement of Nepalese youth serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching implications of geopolitical strife, especially for vulnerable populations seeking better opportunities.
