Dhaka:The Government of Bangladesh, in collaboration with five United Nations agencies, has launched a $2.57 million Joint Programme aimed at supporting the reintegration of migrants and returnees into society. This initiative is designed to help them rebuild their lives with dignity and access necessary social support.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the 30-month program includes the International Organization for Migration (IOM), International Labour Organization (ILO), UN Population Fund (UNFPA), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women). It addresses the medium to long-term reintegration needs of Bangladeshi migrants and returnees, with a particular focus on vulnerable women, children, and crisis-affected migrants.
The program will be implemented by the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment (MoEWOE), supported by the UN's Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF). The initiative aims to enhance social protection mechanisms and promote social inclusion. An agreement was signed by Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Secretary of the Economic Relations Division (ERD), and Dr. Laura Tomm Bonde, IOM Chief of Mission in Bangladesh.
Officials such as A. K. M. Sohel, Md Saiful Haque Chowdhury, and Dr. Kazi Shahjahan attended the signing ceremony. Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky emphasized the need for opportunities and systems for returnees to help them reintegrate and contribute to their communities. He highlighted the importance of coordination among government agencies, UN agencies, and civil society organizations for safe migration.
Dr. Laura Tomm Bonde noted that the Joint Programme aims to provide sustainable reintegration support at individual, community, and structural levels. More than 13 million Bangladeshis, including over one million women, have worked abroad since 2004, and many face challenges upon returning home.
The program will enhance government and civil society efforts to provide gender-responsive reintegration services. Key interventions include reintegration planning, service delivery capacity building, and targeted programs such as labor market integration and financial literacy training. The initiative aligns with Bangladesh's national goals and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, as well as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.