The UN Special Rapporteur on the rights of migrants, Felipe Gonzalez Morales, on Tuesday urged the authorities in Bangladesh to step up efforts for better protection of migrants' rights.
"Bangladesh must step up efforts to strengthen regulation of the migrant recruitment system to protect migrant workers against exploitation and abuses," the UN Rapporteur told reporters.
He laid emphasis on equipping migrant workers with skills and appreciated the efforts taken by the government so far.
Speaking at a press conference in a Dhaka hotel in the afternoon, Morales stressed strengthening monitoring and coordination to promote regular migration and to obviate human trafficking.
He appreciated Bangladesh's efforts regarding the Rohingya issue and said a "durable solution to the Rohingya crisis is crucial."
The UN rapporteur said it is important to enhance coordination among the agencies engaged to address the challenges. "It's a tremendous challenge."
Morales conducted an official visit to Bangladesh from 20 to 31 January.
The Special Rapporteur assessed migration, governance-related policies and their implementation, especially in the area of international labour migration, with a particular focus on pathways for regular and decent labour migration, ethical recruitment, and efforts made to facilitate the safe and dignified return.
He also stressed the measures to ensure the protection of migrant workers and legal access to the labour market for migrants and Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.
In Dhaka, Morales met with relevant government authorities, UN agencies, members of civil society organisations, recruitment agencies and migrants.
He also travelled to Cox's Bazar to meet with Rohingya refugees.
At the end of his visit, the Special Rapporteur shared his preliminary observations and recommendations at the press conference on Tuesday.
He will present a full report on his visit, including findings and recommendations, to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2023.
