IOM, Bangladesh govt launch manual to strengthen migration governance

The government of Bangladesh and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) yesterday launched the "Manual on Migration" -- a comprehensive guide to strengthen migration governance -- along with the Bangladesh Migration Snapshot Report.

The launch took place at an event in Dhaka titled "Building Knowledge for Better Migration", according to a press release.

Developed under the guidance of the Bangladesh government, with support from the European Union, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), the Manual on Migration is designed to promote informed decision-making, coordination, and a shared understanding of migration dynamics.

Featuring 15 modules, the manual covers migration concepts, policy frameworks such as the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration and the SDGs, and cross-cutting issues including gender, protection, and human rights. It serves as a practical reference for government officials, researchers, and development partners.

The Bangladesh Migration Snapshot Report consolidates data from multiple sources to highlight migration trends, policy developments, and key recommendations. The report underscores the importance of reliable and timely migration data for evidence-based policymaking and improved coordination among stakeholders.

Bangladesh, one of the world's leading countries of origin for migrant workers, received USD 27 billion in remittances in 2024. Migration remains vital to the country's economy and social development.

IOM Regional Director Iori Kato joined Chief Guest Dr Neyamat Ullah Bhuiyan, senior secretary, Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment (MoEWOE), and Special Guests Aleya Akter, secretary, Statistics and Informatics Division (SID), Ministry of Planning; ATM Abdur Rouf Mondol, director general, Consular and Welfare Wing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA); and Michal Krejza, head of development cooperation, Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh, at the event.