Home Adviser Seeks Cooperation From EU to Prevent Illegal Immigration

Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has called for European Union (EU) cooperation to curb illegal immigration and strengthen border security.

“Bangladesh expects EU’s support in border management and preventing illegal immigration,” he said.

The adviser made the remarks when a European Commission delegation, led by Michael Shotter, Director for Migration and Asylum, paid a courtesy call on him at the ministry today, according to a press release.

In response to the European Commission director, he also assured that Bangladesh is committed to working together on this issue.

During the meeting, the home adviser reiterated Bangladesh’s zero-tolerance policy against human trafficking.

“Bangladesh is taking serious steps to stop illegal immigration and human trafficking,” he said, adding that several trafficking syndicates have already been brought to justice and necessary amendments are underway in related laws.

Highlighting that a large number of Bangladeshis are working in EU countries, Jahangir said Bangladesh always follows due legal processes in sending both skilled and unskilled manpower abroad. He urged the EU to consider taking workers from Bangladesh through proper channels.

In response, Michel Shotter noted that internal political pressure against immigration within EU member states is mounting. He expressed concern over the high number of Bangladeshi citizens involved in illegal immigration and urged Bangladesh to step up efforts to address the issue.

He also recommended reforms in law enforcement agencies, particularly the police, in line with Bangladesh’s ongoing political transformation.

The home adviser replied that police reform is already in progress.

Welcoming the delegation at the start of the meeting, Jahangir described the European Union as “a development partner and a trusted friend.”

The discussions covered bilateral relations, migration, human trafficking, police reform, and border security.

EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs were also present.