There has been a steady flow of people from Nepal and Bangladesh to India in recent decades in search of better work and livelihood opportunities. As they move to and fro, many face harassment, discrimination and violence. Many face these challenges during their journeys – particularly when they cross borders – at their destinations, and when they go home. Their experiences are affected by gender, country of origin and the process of recruitment to migration.

Key points

- Most migrants experience violence, exclusion and harassment at transit, destination and, to lesser degrees, at home

- Their gender and origin influence the degree of harassment and violence, with female Bangladeshi migrants facing disproportionate risks

- It is vital to sensitise health staff, police, employers and landlords at destination on migrants’ rights