EU Launches €3M Project to Boost Bangladeshis Skills, Migration

Greenwatch Desk Diplomacy 2024-12-11, 11:13pm

The European Union has launched a €3 million Talent Partnership project in Dhaka to bridge skills gaps, lower migration costs, and boost opportunities for Bangladeshis seeking employment in the EU. This three-year initiative, aimed at supporting both the EU labor market and Bangladesh’s workforce, was unveiled on Wednesday and is funded by the EU.

The project will be implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment (MoEWOE), and the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET). Its focus is on promoting safe, legal migration pathways to Europe, reducing irregular migration, and aligning the skills of Bangladeshi workers with the demands of EU Member States.

Bangladesh is home to over 7.4 million migrant workers who remit approximately €2 billion every month. This project aims to prepare 3,000 workers through specialized training programs that equip them with the qualifications necessary to meet EU labor standards.

The initiative will also enhance MoEWOE’s online job-matching platform, improving access for skilled Bangladeshi job seekers to relevant employment opportunities in the EU.

Asif Nazrul, Adviser for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, highlighted the project’s significance in safeguarding workers and boosting remittance flows. He said, “This project will ensure the safety of workers while enhancing remittance contributions to Bangladesh.”

Tuomo Poutiainen, ILO Country Director, emphasized the project’s role in advancing technical skills and promoting fair recruitment practices. "This project will provide crucial upskilling and help ensure workers are adequately prepared for employment abroad," he said.

Michael Miller, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh, noted the transformative potential of the Talent Partnership. He stated, "The EU-Bangladesh Talent Partnership is a win-win initiative. It will ensure safe, dignified migration while upholding human rights, and will help address key challenges such as irregular migration, trafficking, and exploitation."

During the launch, stakeholders underscored the importance of continued collaboration between public and private sectors in both Bangladesh and the EU. This cooperation is crucial to overcoming current challenges and ensuring the success of the Talent Partnership.