The government of Bangladesh and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have agreed to expand joint efforts to tackle human trafficking, secure national borders, and support legal migration routes through technology and institutional training.
The agreement followed a formal meeting at the Bangladesh Secretariat in Dhaka between Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and newly appointed IOM Chief of Mission in Bangladesh Dr Laura Tomm-Bonde.
During discussions, both leaders pledged to build upon two decades of cooperation. The leaders paid particular attention to dismantling digital and technology-driven trafficking operations, upgrading border surveillance, and encouraging safe, orderly international migration.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed welcomed Dr Laura Tomm-Bonde to her post and assured full government backing for IOM programmes across the country. The Home Ministry committed to working alongside international partners to strengthen law enforcement technology and improve border safety standards.
Officials noted during the meeting that national approval for a joint integrated border management strategy is near completion. The IOM reaffirmed its plans to provide specialised technical support and training to law enforcement agencies, including the Special Branch of the police service.
The bilateral review also highlighted ongoing IOM support for policy drafting, field research, capacity building, and securing international funding to support counter-trafficking efforts.
Dr Laura Tomm-Bonde informed the home minister that IOM Deputy Director General Ugochi Daniel will undertake an official visit to Bangladesh from 1 to 5 August. On 4 August, the United Nations House in Dhaka will host an official reception to welcome the visiting delegation.
