Bangladesh experienced a significant decline in overseas migration in 2024, with the total number of migrant workers falling to 1,009,146, representing a 27.4 percent decrease from 1,390,811 in 2023, according to the Ami Probashi Annual Report 2024. However, a noteworthy trend emerged - female participation in Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET) registration nearly doubled compared to the previous year, signaling a shift in gender dynamics in overseas employment.
The report was unveiled at a programme in Dhaka on Wednesday, presented by Tarique E. Haque, Founder and Managing Director of Ami Probashi.
According to the report, Saudi Arabia remained the top choice for Bangladeshi migrants, absorbing 62.17 percent of total migration, with approximately 627,000 migrants departing for the kingdom. This continued preference is driven by a high demand for both skilled and unskilled labor, particularly in infrastructure development.
In contrast, Malaysia, the second-largest destination, saw a decline in migration numbers, with only 93,000 workers moving there in 2024. This drop is attributed to changes in Malaysia's foreign labour policies, which have become more restrictive compared to previous years. A noticeable decline in migration numbers has been observed since May 2024.
Broader socio-economic and political factors also likely disrupted migration trends. The July uprising and subsequent economic instability may have contributed to a slowdown in migration, as uncertainty over job security and future opportunities could have discouraged many potential workers from seeking employment abroad.
