Dhaka:Bangladesh should be developed as a destination for migrant workers, Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikrom, stated, emphasizing that migration involves more than just remittances, but also encompasses the rights, dignity, and security of individuals.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Speaker highlighted that behind remittances are the hardships and immense sufferings of ordinary citizens. He made these remarks during the "Inauguration of the Parliamentary Caucus on Migration, Rights and Development," organized by the WARBE Development Foundation in the capital.
The Speaker called for greater awareness to alleviate the sufferings of Bangladeshi migrant workers, particularly women, who often face inhuman conditions abroad. He urged the enforcement of existing laws, effective implementation of migration policies, and discussions with destination countries to safeguard migrant workers' interests.
Reflecting on past challenges, Hafiz Uddin noted that workers incurred excessive costs to migrate during previous authoritarian regimes. He pointed to mismanagement in recruitment and the influence of middlemen as obstacles to the deployment of overseas workers in recent years.
He expressed optimism that the multiparty parliamentary caucus would help lawmakers facilitate overseas employment and monitor the implementation of migration laws at the grassroots level. Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal, MP, emphasized that remittances from expatriates fuel the country's economy and stressed the need for diplomatic efforts to protect migrant workers from exploitation.
The event was attended by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, State Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Md Nurul Haque, and other notable figures. Discussions underscored the importance of safe migration and the protection of migrant workers' rights, calling for collaborative efforts from relevant ministries to enforce policies and combat human trafficking.