Diplomatic Correspondent :
International conflicts, shrinking labor markets, and illegal migration are significantly affecting Bangladeshi migrants living abroad, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.
These expatriates play a crucial role in supporting the country’s economy through remittances, which are vital for the government’s coffers and national reserves.
However, for various reasons, many migrants are returning from countries like Libya, Tunisia, and Lebanon. Some are leaving due to ongoing conflicts, while others are returning because of irregular migration status.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday reported that a total of 143 Bangladeshi nationals, who had been stranded in Benghazi and surrounding areas in Libya, were repatriated to Bangladesh.
The returnees arrived in Dhaka on a chartered flight operated by Buraq Air (UZ 0222), landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 6:15am, Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
The repatriation was made possible through a coordinated effort by the Foreign Ministry, the Bangladesh Embassy in Libya, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Earlier on the same day, another group of 18 Bangladeshi nationals, stranded in Tunisia, returned to the country aboard a Turkish Airlines flight (TK 712), which touched down in Dhaka at 5:25am.
Officials from the Foreign Ministry and IOM were present at the airport to greet the returnees.
Many of the repatriated individuals had initially traveled to Libya with the intention of reaching Europe via dangerous sea routes, often falling victim to human traffickers.
According to the Ministry, many of the returnees had suffered severe abuse, including kidnapping and exploitation, during their time in Libya.
“We urge everyone to be aware of the dangers of attempting illegal migration through such treacherous routes,” a Foreign Ministry official stated.
