Bangladesh Committed to Combatting Human Trafficking: Adviser

He made the statement while addressing the third meeting of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) sub-group on human trafficking at Hotel Pan Pacific Sonargaon in Dhaka.

The Home Affairs Adviser highlighted the country's robust legal framework aimed at curbing trafficking and noted the ongoing efforts to strengthen enforcement at the nation’s borders. "We have been working diligently towards this goal," he said, stressing the importance of public awareness campaigns to educate people about the dangers of human trafficking.

In his remarks, Jahangir elaborated on Bangladesh's comprehensive approach to combatting trafficking, which includes developing a national action plan, enhancing victim identification processes, and connecting those affected with appropriate support services. He also pointed out that a dedicated special tribunal has been established to expedite the trials of traffickers.

"To enhance our collaborative efforts, we have expanded our mutual legal assistance framework, strengthening ties with BIMSTEC countries and other global partners," Jahangir added. "We are committed to sharing best practices and experiences in this fight."

He also acknowledged the significant progress made by other BIMSTEC member countries in the battle against human trafficking. "I am hopeful that this meeting will provide an opportunity to learn from each other’s strategies and experiences," he said.

Jahangir noted the evolving tactics used by traffickers, who continue to exploit vulnerabilities such as economic hardship and migration. "Traffickers adapt quickly, using technology and migration routes to evade law enforcement. This is why a collective, strategic approach is necessary."

BIMSTEC, he stressed, plays a crucial role in providing a platform for regional cooperation, intelligence sharing, and the exchange of best practices, which are key to strengthening anti-trafficking efforts.

The Adviser also expressed gratitude to BIMSTEC member states for entrusting Bangladesh with the Chairmanship for the next two years. He reiterated the leadership of Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, whose inclusive, action-oriented vision is expected to steer BIMSTEC toward new milestones of cooperation and progress. "Under his leadership, I am confident that BIMSTEC will achieve greater success in addressing regional challenges," Jahangir said.

The third meeting, which brought together representatives from all seven BIMSTEC member countries – Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan – provided a valuable opportunity for discussions on enhancing anti-trafficking strategies and reinforcing the shared commitment to combating this global issue.

Additional Secretary Khandaker Md. Mahabubur Rahman of the Ministry of Home Affairs, who chaired the meeting, and Prasanth Chandran, Director of the BIMSTEC Secretariat, also shared their insights during the event.

The outcome of this meeting, Jahangir concluded, will serve as a catalyst for stronger policy formulation, more effective implementation, and deeper regional cooperation to fight human trafficking across the BIMSTEC region.