Dhaka seeks global cooperation on safe migration at UN forum

Migrant boat sails in the Medeterranean.

Dhaka, May 8 - Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury has called for stronger international cooperation to curb irregular migration and ensure the protection of migrant workers’ rights, fair recruitment practices, decent working conditions and fair wages.

He made the call while speaking at the General Debate of the Second International Migration Review Forum at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Thursday.

The minister said Bangladesh is strengthening accountability mechanisms and expanding migrants’ access to justice through a “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-society” approach, according to a statement issued by the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations.

He noted that the country has formed a Migration Compact Taskforce and adopted a National Action Plan for 2026-2030 to advance safe, orderly and regular migration under the United Nations Global Compact for Migration (GCM).

Ariful Haque said Bangladesh has already fulfilled seven of its 10 commitments made at the first review forum, submitted six new pledges and joined two regional initiatives.

He also said the country has presented its first Voluntary National Review on GCM implementation.

Describing climate change as an increasing driver of migration, the minister called for predictable financing and technical support for climate-affected countries.

He reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to working with international partners to promote safe migration, as well as the dignified return and reintegration of migrant workers. - UNB