Nepal blocks young women from Gulf jobs

Nepal has announced rules prohibiting women under the age of 30 from working in the Gulf.

"Young female workers are reported to have been sexually and psychologically exploited in Gulf countries," said Information Minister Raj Kishor Yadav, according to the Himalayan Times. Campaigners say the rules will not prevent abuse and the authorities in Nepal need to do more.

"A better strategy would be to crack down on abusive recruitment practices, ensure that women migrate with an enforceable contract in hand, and equip embassies to respond quickly to complaints of abuse," said Nisha Varia, of Human Rights Watch.