The country's economy and the suffering of remittance warriors
Sadia Sultana Rimi
Remittances are one of the main drivers of Bangladesh's economy. Every year, millions of migrant workers send back their hard-earned money to the country, keeping the economy running. However, these remittance warriors are facing various problems that are making their lives difficult. Their suffering is increasing day by day due to administrative complications, the violence of brokers, the influence of hundi and the lack of government benefits.
The role of remittances in the economy of Bangladesh: According to Bangladesh Bank statistics, remittances generated around US$25 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, which has played a significant role in strengthening the country's foreign exchange reserves. This helps in maintaining the balance of foreign trade, implementing development projects, and maintaining the overall economic stability of the country.
The suffering of remittance warriors
1. Inadequate service and brokers: Expatriate workers face various complications while going abroad. They face various problems including harassment in government institutions, overpayment through brokers, and providing incorrect information.
2. The violence of illegal hundi channels: Although sending money through hundi or illegal means is more profitable than banking channels, it is harmful to the country's economy. However, due to the slowness and additional charges of banking channels, many are forced to send money through hundi.
3. Harassment and fraud at the airport: Expatriates face various forms of harassment at airports and immigration while returning home. Luggage theft, excessive duty collection, mistreatment by the administration, etc. are all causes of suffering for them.
4. Lack of social and economic security:Many migrant workers do not receive fair wages while working abroad, are subjected to torture, and many even go missing. They do not receive any government support upon returning home, which results in an economic crisis.
Creating a simple and attractive banking system for sending remittances.Take strict steps to crack down on middlemen and brokers. Formulate effective policies to stop harassment of expatriates at airports.Increase government support to ensure the safety and welfare of workers working abroad. Providing easy loan facilities through the Expatriate Welfare Bank and other government agencies.
There is no denying the contribution of remittances to the economic development of Bangladesh. However, the expatriate workers, who are the driving force of this economy, are facing various problems, which are not only difficult for them, but also harmful to the country's economy. Therefore, the government and the relevant agencies should take effective steps to protect the interests of expatriates, so that they can work safely and comfortably and contribute to the country's economy.
The writer is a student, at Mathematics department Jagannath University, Dhaka
