Bangladesh faces a sobering reality as revealed in the recent launch of the World Migration Report 2024 in Dhaka.
A shocking 12 per cent of fatalities this year on the treacherous Mediterranean Sea route to Europe involved Bangladeshi citizens, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). This stark statistic lays bare the desperation and vulnerability pushing people towards illegal migration.
Bangladesh has been lauded for its efforts in reducing poverty and fostering economic growth, even being recognised as a pioneer in migration governance.
However, the human cost of irregular migration cannot be ignored.
The report exposes the double-edged sword of migration – remittances sent by migrant workers fuel the national economy, but the perilous journeys highlight the harsh realities faced by those seeking a better life.
The global migration landscape is undergoing a dramatic shift.
The report highlights a surge in displaced persons alongside a significant increase in international remittances.
Despite the pandemic’s predicted impact, remittances continue to surpass foreign direct investment in low- and middle-income countries, underlining their critical role in development.
However, the report also paints a picture of a world in crisis, with a record number of individuals displaced due to conflict, violence, and disasters. This necessitates immediate action on a global scale, and Bangladesh, a nation well-versed in such challenges, has pledged continued leadership in addressing these issues.
There is a glimmer of hope offered by the Bangladeshi government’s commitment to both its citizens’ well-being domestically and its international leadership on migration issues.
However, the stark reality exposed by the IOM demands a multifaceted approach. Investing in opportunities within Bangladesh, coupled with increased collaboration on creating safe and legal migration pathways, is crucial.
Only then the flow of Bangladeshi talent can be transformed from a perilous exodus into a force that empowers both individuals and the nation.
In the face of these daunting challenges, Bangladesh must leverage its position as a global leader in migration governance to advocate for comprehensive solutions.
This includes strengthening regional cooperation, enhancing border security to combat human trafficking, and providing better access to information about legal migration channels.
Moreover, addressing the root causes of illegal migration, such as poverty, lack of opportunities, and environmental degradation, requires concerted efforts from governments, civil society, and the international community.
