Migration creates employment for 25 per cent of Bangladesh's skilled workforce, and without foreign job opportunities, poverty will increase by an estimated 10 per cent, Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Ministry’s Senior Secretary Ahmed Munirus Saleheen said.
He made the remarks while attending the inauguration ceremony of the Shadow Parliament Debate Competition organised on International Migrants Day 2023 at BFDC in the capital on Tuesday.
The secretary announced the launch of the Talent Partnership Project, aimed at facilitating expatriate employment opportunities in European Union member countries. The project seeks to leverage partnerships and collaborations to enhance skilled migration pathways for Bangladeshi workers.
He also addressed ongoing discussions with the Maldives regarding minimum wage standards for Bangladeshi labourers. He emphasised the government's commitment to preventing illegal syndicates from exploiting workers in this sector.
Regarding the temporary ban on sending workers to Oman, Saleheen acknowledged the ongoing discussions with the Omani government and expressed hope for a swift resolution.
The secretary said that the government will investigate the concerns about returning workers with a large number of out-passes adding that legal action will be taken against any individuals found responsible for facilitating such irregular practices.
Saleheen further added that the National Re-Integration Policy will be implemented after the formation of the new government. This policy aims to provide social security and support for returning expatriate workers.
He also mentioned that the Bangladesh Bank is actively exploring options to improve the exchange rate and incentivise remittance flows through legal channels.
The inauguration ceremony coincided with the Shadow Parliament Debate Competition, jointly organised by the Bangladesh Overseas Employment and Services Limited (BOESL) and Debate for Democracy (DFD). BOESL Managing Director Mallick Anwar Hossain attended as a special guest with DFD Chairman Hassan Ahamed Chowdhury Kiron presiding over the debate competition.
Teams from four universities participated in the debate competition, with Primeasia University emerging as the winner, defeating Bangladesh University of Business and Technology.
Waliullah/Tanzia/
