As labor migration from Bangladesh continues to surge, a worrisome trend of fraudulence and exploitation is emerging. In the first half of 2023, a significant number of migrants and aspiring migrants, totaling 1,112 individuals (58% male, rest female), lodged complaints against recruiting agencies, middlemen, or employers, highlighting issues such as wage theft, fake job offers, and irregular employment. Experts suggest that the actual number of complaints might be higher due to underreporting.
Stakeholders fear that if the current migration flow persists, complaints could double by year-end. Additionally, certain NGOs play a crucial role in resolving allegations at the grassroots level. Efforts to address the concerns are ongoing, with the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) having successfully resolved 459 complaints in the first half of 2023, resulting in Tk3.33 crore being awarded as compensation to victims. However, challenges remain in settling all complaints promptly.