The government and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the UN migration agency, held a strategic discussion in Dhaka on Wednesday on strengthening immigration and border management, with a focus on institutional capacity, technology and coordination.
At the meeting, IOM briefed the government and key partners on its Strategic Framework for Immigration and Border Governance in Bangladesh (2027–2031), outlining potential areas of technical support and future cooperation in line with national priorities.
Home Affairs Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, MP, attended the event as the chief guest.
The discussion brought together senior representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Special Branch of Bangladesh Police and IOM. Among them were IOM Chief of Mission in Bangladesh Dr Laura Tomm-Bonde, Additional Secretary Dr Ziauddin Ahmed, Joint Secretary Rebeka Khan, Additional Inspector General of Police Md Kamrul Ahsan and Deputy Inspector General Md Moazzem Hussain.
Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh and Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro also attended, among others.
Discussions focused on facilitating legitimate travel and trade while addressing challenges such as human trafficking, cross-border crime and identity fraud.
Addressing the event, Salahuddin Ahmed said: “An effective immigration and border governance system is essential to safeguarding national security while facilitating legitimate travel and mobility. The government is committed to strengthening institutions, improving coordination and using modern technology to address emerging challenges.”
IOM has worked closely with the government on immigration and border management issues for many years.
“Bangladesh has made important progress in developing its immigration and border management capabilities. As travel patterns and operational needs change, stronger systems, skilled professionals and better coordination will be increasingly important. IOM aims to support the government’s priorities through technical expertise and partnerships,” said Dr Laura Tomm-Bonde.
The framework identifies four potential areas of support: integrated border management; digital systems and information sharing; capacity development; and infrastructure and services at selected border control points.
It also takes into account the government's Five-Year Strategic Framework for Reform and Development for July 2026 to June 2031.
IOM emphasized that any support would be based on the government's priorities and requests, consultations with relevant institutions and available resources.