Migrants Council seeks stronger protections for abused returnees

The Bangladesh Expatriates and Migrants Council has demanded stronger protection and rights for returnee migrants who have faced abuse and exploitation abroad.

At a rally held today (15 May) at the National Press Club, the organisation presented a 19-point charter, urging the government to take immediate and concrete action to support migrant workers and their families.

"We earnestly urge the government to consider these demands in the interest of our migrant community and take appropriate action," said Delwar Hossain Syed, the council's central president.

The key demands put forward by the Bangladesh Expatriates and Migrants Council include bringing all migrant workers under a national pension scheme and providing one-time compensation to families in the event of a migrant worker's death, according to a press release.

They also called for the repatriation of deceased migrants' bodies at government expense and the introduction of mandatory life insurance and pension schemes to ensure financial security in old age.

The group emphasised the need for legal aid and protection for migrants, including the withdrawal of false charges that prevent their return home, and urged an end to harassment during passport renewal.

Strengthening consular support and ensuring immediate legal assistance through embassies in accordance with host country laws were also highlighted.

The council demanded compensation for job losses caused by non-compliant recruiting agencies and legal action against fraudulent practices. Returnees should have access to government-backed, low-interest loans to help them become self-reliant.

They further called for the protection of voting rights for migrants, including provisions for online voting, and an end to harassment and humiliation at airports, especially under smuggling suspicions.