174 Bangladeshi Migrants Return Home from Libya Through Voluntary Repatriation Programme

A total of 174 Bangladeshi nationals returned home from Libya under a voluntary repatriation programme coordinated by the Government of Bangladesh in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), marking another effort to assist vulnerable migrants stranded in the North African country.

The returnees arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka aboard a Buraq Airlines flight early in the morning, where they were welcomed by officials from several government agencies along with representatives of the IOM.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the repatriation operation was jointly coordinated by the ministry, the Bangladesh Embassy in Libya, and the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment. The initiative was carried out with logistical support from the Libyan authorities and the IOM.

Most of the migrants are reported to have travelled to Libya through irregular channels with the assistance of human trafficking networks. Many had hoped to continue their journey to Europe by crossing the Mediterranean Sea, a route widely regarded as one of the world's most dangerous migration corridors.

Officials said several of the returnees described experiencing severe hardship during their time in Libya. Some alleged they had been abducted by criminal groups, subjected to physical abuse, or held for ransom while attempting to reach Europe through illegal routes.

The accounts underscore the continued dangers faced by irregular migrants who rely on traffickers promising employment opportunities or passage to European countries. International organizations have repeatedly warned that migrants travelling through Libya remain vulnerable to exploitation, violence, forced labour, and detention.

Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, and other relevant government agencies received the returnees upon their arrival in Dhaka. Officials also coordinated with the IOM to ensure immediate humanitarian assistance for those returning after difficult experiences abroad.
 

As part of the reintegration support package, the IOM provided financial assistance for local transportation, meals, primary healthcare services, and temporary accommodation for returnees requiring additional support following their arrival.

Authorities said further assistance and counselling may be provided where necessary to help migrants begin rebuilding their lives after returning to Bangladesh.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the repatriated migrants to share their personal experiences with relatives, neighbours, and members of their communities in order to raise awareness about the risks associated with illegal migration and human trafficking.

Officials believe firsthand accounts from returnees can play an important role in discouraging others from falling victim to traffickers who often lure prospective migrants with false promises of employment and safe travel.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to assisting Bangladeshi nationals who remain stranded in Libya, including individuals currently being held in detention centres across the country.

According to the ministry, Bangladesh continues to work closely with its embassy in Libya, the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, the Libyan authorities, and the International Organization for Migration to facilitate the safe and voluntary return of additional Bangladeshi citizens wishing to come home.

Bangladesh has carried out several voluntary repatriation missions from Libya in recent years as conflict, economic instability, and security concerns continue to affect migrant communities living in the country.

Government officials have repeatedly emphasized that those seeking overseas employment should use only legal migration channels through licensed recruiting agencies and approved government procedures. They have also warned that illegal migration exposes individuals to serious risks, including trafficking, exploitation, detention, and loss of life.

The latest repatriation mission reflects Bangladesh's ongoing efforts to protect its citizens abroad while strengthening cooperation with international organizations to combat human trafficking and support the safe return of vulnerable migrants.