That remittance remains one of the most vital pillars of Bangladesh’s economy is undeniable, providing foreign currency stability and cushioning against external shocks.
Most encouragingly, we continue to see an increase in remittance earnings. In May alone, remittances surged to $3.425 billion, marking a 15.34% increase year‑on‑year. Over the first 11 months of FY26, inflows reached $32.75bn, a remarkable 19% growth compared to the same period last year.
With that said, we must remember to not take these figures for granted. Beyond the impressive numbers are the sacrifices of millions of Bangladeshis working abroad, often in difficult conditions, to sustain their families and strengthen our nation’s reserves. At a time when the world is volatile and our domestic challenges persist, remittance earnings remain a much needed lifeline.
However, while Bangladesh continues to benefit from their work, the workers themselves often remain neglected, with many facing exploitation, unsafe working conditions, and a gross lack of legal protection in host countries.
As such, it is time to stop the double standard, where their contributions are celebrated in statistics but their real-life struggles are ignored.
We cannot talk about truly honouring our expatriate workers without going beyond applauding remittance figures and truly having the needed policies and practices in place to assist them.
This means stronger bilateral agreements to safeguard rights abroad, fair and transparent recruitment processes free of corruption and exploitation, and reintegration programs to support returnees with skills and opportunities at home.
Above all, the government in particular must ensure that the workers who fuel our economy are treated with dignity and fairness.
Remittances continue to be a symbol of the resilience and commitment of Bangladeshis abroad. However, we cannot continue to rely on their sacrifices without offering protection and support in return.
