Lawmakers demand taskforce to end exploitation of Bangladeshi diaspora

Opposition lawmakers in Bangladesh are demanding the creation of a parliamentary taskforce to combat the exploitation of the country's diaspora. They argue that expatriate Bangladeshis, who are vital to the national economy through remittances, face significant hardships abroad.

During a parliamentary discussion, MPs from both sides of the aisle voiced dissatisfaction with the conditions faced by Bangladeshis seeking or renewing passports. They cited issues ranging from overpriced tickets and embassy misconduct to prolonged passport delays and exploitation by middlemen and recruitment agencies. Many return home with migration debts, facing wage theft and unsafe living environments, sometimes injured or dead without adequate support.

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Since we call expatriates our warriors, we must honour them as heroes. The government should take steps to ensure they receive that recognition. If any cooperation is needed, the opposition will extend wholehearted support.

Opposition Leader Shafiqur Rahman proposed that the taskforce regularly visit countries with acute problems, directly engage with expatriates, and involve embassy officials. He believes this comprehensive approach would not only boost remittances but also uphold the dignity of "remittance warriors," whom he urged the government to recognize as heroes. The opposition pledged full support for any government initiatives.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed acknowledged the validity of the MPs' points, admitting that "expatriates have been exploited in various ways" over the past 17 years. State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque Nur detailed existing government measures, while an MP specifically raised concerns about potential syndicate involvement when the Malaysian labor market reopens, emphasizing adherence to the agreed memorandum of understanding.

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These things have indeed happened. Over the past 17 years, expatriates have been exploited in various ways. Our remittance warriors have been used.