Switzerland, Bangladesh discuss safer, dignified labour migration

DHAKA — Switzerland and Bangladesh have discussed strengthening cooperation to protect migrant workers’ rights and promote safe, sustainable and dignified labour migration pathways.

Diepak Elmer, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Switzerland in Dhaka, hosted a dinner bringing together key stakeholders involved in labour migration and migrant welfare.

State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Md Nurul Hoque, MP, attended the event, along with the secretary and additional secretary of the ministry and senior representatives of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Bangladesh and the International Labour Organization (ILO) Bangladesh.

The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration and partnerships among government and international organisations to ensure better protection of migrant workers’ rights.

The participants also discussed ways to foster safe, sustainable and dignified labour migration pathways, according to the Swiss Embassy.

Bangladesh is one of the major labour-sending countries, with millions of its citizens working abroad. Ensuring safe migration, fair recruitment practices, workers’ rights and access to welfare services remains a key issue for the country.

The engagement reflects Switzerland’s continued cooperation with Bangladesh and international partners on migration governance and the protection of migrant workers.