Bilateral Conference Addresses Safe Labour Migration Between Bangladesh and Maldives

The Public Interest Law Centre (PILC), Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit (RMMRU) (Bangladesh) and, in collaboration with The Asia Foundation (TAF), successfully concluded a track 1.5 level bilateral conference on “Bangladesh-Maldives Labour Migration.” The conference took place from July 17th to July 18th at H. Meerumaa (Conference Hall), Violet Magu, Male’, Maldives.

The primary focus of the conference was to deliberate on the migration framework and explore future cooperation modalities, ensuring the safety and well-being of labour migrants travelling between Bangladesh and the Maldives. 

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The first day of the conference commenced on a momentous note with three dynamic working sessions, each dedicated to exploring specific aspects of labour migration. The first session explored the challenges arising from the institutional and legislative frameworks governing labour migration. Participants in this session engaged in constructive dialogues, shining light on the existing gaps in policy and its implementation. 

The second session took a gender-specific lens to examine human trafficking within the Bangladesh-Maldives corridor. The discussions revolved around the unique vulnerabilities faced by individuals, especially women, in the migration process. The third session centred on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and the Maldives. Participants emphasized the significance of mutual assistance mechanisms to combat issues related to labour migration and human trafficking.

On the second day of the conference, both PILC and RMMRU presented their invaluable research findings to the audience. The comprehensive studies, conducted as part of the Asia Foundation initiative on safe migration from Bangladesh to the Maldives, offered valuable insights and data. 

Distinguished attendees at the conference included Mr Tanvir Shakil Joy and Mr Rana Mohammad Sohail, Honourable Members of Parliament from Bangladesh, who actively participated in the discussions. The event also witnessed the presence of senior state functionaries (both serving and retired) from various ministries, researchers, representatives of recruiting agencies, civil society organizations, and media personnel.

The collaborative efforts of PILC, RMMRU and TAF brought together key stakeholders from both countries, fostering dialogue, and promoting understanding of crucial aspects of labour migration. The conference provided a platform to address challenges, share insights, and identify avenues for future cooperation between Bangladesh and the Maldives, thereby contributing to a safer and more sustainable migration process.

The valuable outcomes and recommendations from the conference are expected to further strengthen the bilateral ties between the two nations and set the foundation for ensuring the protection and welfare of Bangladeshi labour migrants in the Maldives.