Chandpur:Sharif Hossain, a 42-year-old migrant worker from Bangladesh, died in the Maldives, leaving his family facing severe financial challenges. Sharif had left his home with hopes of earning enough to repay the loans taken for his journey and secure a better future for his family. However, he collapsed and died barely 11 months after arriving in the Maldives.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sharif's wife, Habiba Akter, along with their two young daughters and his elderly parents, now struggle with debts incurred to finance his migration. The family had borrowed approximately Tk 6 lakh, expecting that Hossain would repay the loans through his overseas earnings.
Following Sharif's death on September 21, his body was repatriated to Bangladesh on September 25, with Tk 35,000 provided by the Wage Earners' Welfare Board (WEWB) for transportation and burial. The family awaits further government assistance to manage the outstanding debts and support their children.
Sharif's case highlights the economic burden faced by families of deceased migrant workers. In the fiscal year 2025-26, the WEWB reported the repatriation of 5,312 bodies of deceased Bangladeshi workers, underscoring the magnitude of the issue. Many families borrow heavily to fund migration, only to face financial instability if the worker dies before repaying the loans.
The average age of deceased Bangladeshi migrant workers, as reported by the Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit, was just 38, raising concerns about occupational safety and working conditions abroad. The WEWB provides support for repatriation and burial, along with financial grants and insurance benefits to eligible families. However, the effectiveness of these measures hinges on timely and efficient processing.
Experts emphasize the need for improved workplace safety, better monitoring of workers abroad, and thorough investigations into the causes of death. Support for bereaved families should include livelihood assistance, skills training, educational support, and access to affordable credit to help them regain financial stability.
For Bangladesh, overseas employment not only generates remittances but also represents a system of family expectations and commitments. Protecting migrant workers involves ensuring their safety, securing their entitlements, and aiding their families in rebuilding lives after a loss.