We must address the woes of families left behind: Remittances are crucial, but neglecting social cost is shortsightedness

Bangladesh’s economic success story is intertwined with the exodus of millions of male workers seeking opportunities abroad. Remittances sent back home fuel countless families and the national economy.

However, this migration boom comes at a hidden cost – the social strain placed on families left behind.

Professor KS Farid’s research paints a concerning picture published in an English newspaper yesterday.

Traditional family structures, the backbone of society, are fracturing due to the impact of absence of the guiding member on a family left by the migrant workers in their homes in Bangladesh.

Wives, often lacking financial literacy, become single-parent figures, juggling childcare and financial pressures.

This vulnerability can lead to a cycle of debt and, in some cases, irresponsible spending fueled by societal comparisons.

The most vulnerable are the children. Fatherless homes and potentially stressed mothers create fertile ground for social problems like juvenile delinquency.

Professor Farid rightly emphasises the need for educators to provide these children with specialised care and guidance.

The answer isn’t to stop migration. It’s to acknowledge its multifaceted impact. Remittances are crucial, but neglecting the social cost is shortsighted.

We need a multi-pronged approach. Financial literacy training empowers wives to manage finances effectively. Counseling services can address the emotional toll of separation and promote responsible money management.

Bangladesh’s true prosperity lies in a truly equitable society – one that prioritises the well-being of all, especially the vulnerable.

These demands support families on two fronts: managing finances and navigating separation. Equipping wives with financial literacy is vital.

Counseling services can offer emotional support for both mothers and children, while promoting responsible money management practices.

Bangladesh stands at a crossroads. As we celebrate the economic gains from migration, let’s not forget our collective responsibility.

By investing in the social and emotional well-being of those left behind, we honor the sacrifices of countless families and build a more inclusive Bangladesh.

True prosperity is measured not just in economic terms, but in the strength and unity of its communities.