Dr. Asif Nazrul, Adviser for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, has called for bolstering mutual cooperation in labour migration to ensure ethical recruitment and the protection of migrant workers’ dignity.
Speaking at the ministerial-level session on the second day of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue-2026 in Dubai, Dr. Nazrul emphasized the need for joint efforts to uphold the rights and dignity of migrant workers while ensuring safe and orderly migration practices.
He praised the Abu Dhabi Dialogue as a trusted platform for advancing ethical labour migration and called for continued commitment to creating an environment where workers are treated with respect and fairness.
Dr. Nazrul also held a meeting with Dr. Abdulrahman Abdulmannan Al Awar, UAE Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, where he highlighted Bangladesh’s role as one of the largest labour-sending countries globally. He pointed out that Bangladeshi workers abroad are making substantial contributions not only through remittances but also to the economies of the countries where they work.
Despite these contributions, Dr. Nazrul acknowledged that some migrant workers still face exploitation and rights violations. He stressed that both sending and receiving countries must share responsibility in addressing these issues.
The adviser also shared recent initiatives by the Bangladeshi government, such as the introduction of a fully digital overseas employment portal, enhanced pre-departure assistance, and improved overseas welfare services. He highlighted the government’s commitment to upgrading skills training and enforcing strict regulations against fraudulent recruitment practices.
In his meeting with Dr. Al Awar, Dr. Nazrul expressed appreciation for the UAE government’s decision to grant amnesty to 212 Bangladeshi expatriates who had been convicted. He also discussed the challenges faced by Bangladeshi workers due to the UAE’s visa restrictions, which have impacted the flow of workers. Dr. Nazrul requested the UAE’s cooperation in resolving visa-related issues for Bangladeshi nationals.
Furthermore, Dr. Nazrul held separate discussions with Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Pakistan’s Federal Minister, and Hans Leo J. Cacdac, the Philippine Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers. The meetings focused on sharing best practices in labour migration management, promoting skill development, ensuring ethical recruitment, and enhancing migrant welfare through stronger bilateral cooperation.
The eighth ministerial meeting of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue, which began on January 31, 2026, at the Intercontinental Dubai Festival City, brought together representatives from 17 member countries, senior officials, and international organizations.
