We applaud the opening of an exclusive lounge for migrant workers at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. Long demanded by migrants to ensure a smooth journey, this measure by the caretaker government aligns with other reassuring steps it has taken since August 8, including obtaining clemency for 57 imprisoned Bangladeshi migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the opening of negotiations with the Malaysian authorities. to re-recruit Bangladeshi workers.

Migrant workers, whose remittances form the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy, are reportedly often victims of neglect and harassment at the airport. Although fancy displays were installed inside the airport during the previous regime, hardly any provision was made to ease the travel experience of migrant workers. Many workers come from remote parts of the country, enduring long journeys and the anxiety of venturing abroad, only to encounter hostile treatment from airport staff upon arrival. The same bad welcome greets them when they return home.

The newly opened lounge offers workers some well-deserved rest and relief – before embarking on another long and sometimes hectic journey – as well as subsidized snacks at a lower price than the typically overpriced food at the airport. In addition, 100 volunteers sponsored by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) will assist them at the airport. These efforts should not, however, diminish the need to train regular airport staff to guarantee better treatment for our emigrants.

Given that remittances are one of our major sources of foreign exchange, it is extremely important that the government prioritizes this sector, especially in light of the country’s foreign currency debt. Authorities should also tackle other key issues facing migrant workers, including the high cost of migration, recruitment irregularities, wage theft, abuse by foreign employers and inadequate support Bangladeshi missions abroad. Expanding into new labor markets through diplomacy or accelerating recruitment in established countries like Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates should remain our priorities, but not at the expense of workers’ rights.

We hope that the Government will continue to take meaningful steps to support them in their quest to earn an income and ensure that they are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve, both at home and abroad.