Topic: Migration
Migration is a powerful and transformative force that has shaped human societies throughout
history. It is not merely a process of moving from one place to another; it represents a
fundamental aspect of human existence, reflecting our innate desire for exploration, connection,
and survival.
Definition: Migration can be theatrically defined as the grand journey of individuals or groups,
transcending geographical boundaries, driven by aspirations for a better life, a search for safety,
or the pursuit of opportunity. It embodies the timeless human quest to navigate the world, often
fueled by hope and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
Historically, migration has been a catalyst for cultural exchange, economic development, and
social transformation. It has fostered the creation of diverse societies and enriched civilizations
through the blending of traditions, languages, and customs. From the early nomadic tribes
traversing vast landscapes in search of sustenance to the modern-day global workforce
navigating complex international landscapes, migration has been a defining characteristic of
humanity.
As we explore the multifaceted nature of migration, it is essential to consider not only the
individual experiences of those who migrate but also the broader implications for communities,
nations, and the world at large. Migration is intertwined with global issues such as economic
inequality, social justice, and environmental challenges, making it a critical topic for our
understanding of contemporary society.
In essence, migration is a reflection of our shared humanity—a testament to our resilience,
adaptability, and unyielding desire to forge new paths in an ever-changing world. It is both a
personal journey and a collective experience that continues to shape our societies in profound
ways.
Types of Migration
Migration can be classified into several categories based on various criteria, such as the distance
traveled, the duration of stay, and the underlying motivations. Here are the main types of
migration, explained in detail:
1. Internal Migration
Internal migration refers to the movement of people within the boundaries of a country. This can
involve relocating from one region to another or from rural areas to urban centers.
Temporary or Permanent: Internal migrants may move temporarily for work or education or
settle permanently in a new location.
Economic Opportunities: Many individuals migrate internally in search of better employment,
specialities and diversify career.
Examples:
In Bangladesh, a significant number of people migrate from rural areas to cities like Dhaka and
Chittagong. They seek employment in the burgeoning garment industry, which offers higher
wages compared to agricultural work.
Seasonal migration occurs when agricultural workers move to urban areas during the off-season
for work opportunities, often returning to their villages during harvests.
2. International Migration
International migration involves individuals moving across national borders, either voluntarily
or involuntarily, for various reasons such as employment, education, or fleeing conflict.
Legal and Illegal Migration: Some international migrants move legally through visas or
sponsorships, while others may migrate illegally due to restrictions in their home or destination
countries.
Diverse Motivations: Reasons for international migration can include seeking better job
prospects, educational opportunities, or family reunification, as well as escaping persecution or
conflict.
Examples:
Many Bangladeshis migrate to countries in the Middle East, such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar, for
job opportunities in construction, domestic work, and the service sector.
Students often seek higher education abroad, with popular destinations including the USA,
Canada, and the UK, where they can access world-class institutions and gain international
experience.
3. Seasonal Migration
Seasonal migration refers to the temporary movement of people based on seasonal changes,
typically for work related to agriculture or tourism.
Short-term: This type of migration usually lasts for a specific period, often aligned with
agricultural cycles or peak tourism seasons.
Economic Dependence: Seasonal migrants often contribute to local economies during peak
periods but return to their original homes when the season ends.
Examples:
In Bangladesh, many agricultural workers migrate temporarily to urban areas during the dry
season to work in construction or other labor-intensive jobs. They return home during the
monsoon season when farming is in full swing.
4. Forced Migration
Forced migration occurs when individuals are compelled to leave their homes due to external
pressures, such as conflict, persecution, or natural disasters.
Lack of Choice: Forced migrants often have little to no choice about their relocation, making it
a deeply traumatic experience.
Displacement: This type of migration can lead to large-scale displacement, creating refugee
populations and internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Examples:
The Rohingya people fleeing Myanmar to seek refuge in Bangladesh exemplify forced migration
due to ethnic persecution and violence. Many have been living in overcrowded refugee camps,
facing dire conditions and uncertainty about their future.
Natural disasters, such as the cyclones and floods that frequently affect Bangladesh, also lead to
forced migration as families evacuate their homes to seek safety elsewhere.
5. Rural-Urban Migration
Rural-urban migration is a specific form of internal migration where individuals move from rural
areas to urban centres.
Economic Transformation: Driven by financial opportunities, rural-urban migration is often
linked to urbanization and industrialization.
Youth Migration: Young people are particularly prone to rural-urban migration in search of
better education and job prospects.
Examples:
In Bangladesh, the influx of people into urban areas like Dhaka reflects the country’s rapid
urbanization, with many seeking jobs in industries such as textiles, construction, and services.
6. Return Migration
Return migration involves individuals moving back to their place of origin after spending time
abroad or in another region.
Voluntary: This type of migration is often voluntary, driven by a desire to reunite with family,
retire, or invest in local communities.
Reintegration Challenges: Returnees may face challenges reintegrating into their home
communities, particularly if they have become accustomed to different lifestyles or if their skills
are not in demand.
Examples:
Bangladeshi workers who have spent years working abroad often return home with savings and
new skills. They may invest in businesses or agricultural projects, contributing to local economic
development.
Some returnees face difficulties adjusting to their home country after living abroad, as they may
find it challenging to re-enter the job market or adapt to cultural changes.
Migration in Bangladesh
Migration in Bangladesh is a significant phenomenon that plays a crucial role in shaping the
country’s socio-economic landscape. With a population of over 170 million, the dynamics of
migration—both internal and international—reflect the aspirations, challenges, and
transformations experienced by individuals and communities across the nation.
Internal Migration in Bangladesh
Internal migration is a critical aspect of Bangladesh’s development, especially as urbanization
accelerates.
Urbanization Rate: As of 2021, Bangladesh has an urbanization rate of approximately 39%, with
projections suggesting that it will rise to about 50% by 2030. This rapid urbanization is largely
driven by internal migration, where people move from rural to urban areas in search of better
livelihoods.
According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), nearly 12 million people migrated from
rural areas to urban centers between 2000 and 2010, reflecting a significant shift in population
distribution.
International Migration from Bangladesh
International migration has also become a vital source of income and economic stability for
many Bangladeshi families.
Remittances: Bangladesh is one of the top remittance-receiving countries globally. In the fiscal
year 2021-2022, remittances totalled approximately $24.77 billion, accounting for nearly 6% of
the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), around 10 million
Bangladeshis live and work abroad, primarily in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Western
countries.
Push and Pull Factors for Migration
Push Factors
1. Poverty:
A significant portion of the rural population lives below the poverty line, leading to limited
access to basic necessities and services. For example, many farmers earn insufficient income
from agriculture, prompting them to seek better-paying jobs in urban areas or abroad.
2. Unemployment:
High unemployment rates, particularly in rural areas, drive individuals to migrate. Many rural
workers find it challenging to secure stable employment due to a lack of diverse job
opportunities.
3. Corruption:
Persistent corruption within the government can lead to disenchantment with the political
system. Individuals may migrate in search of a more transparent and accountable government.
4. Violence and Conflict:
Regions affected by political violence or ethnic conflict can force individuals to flee for safety.
For instance, in areas with ongoing political strife, families may choose to leave to escape
potential harm.
5. Natural Disasters:
Bangladesh is prone to natural disasters such as floods, cyclones, and riverbank erosion. Events
like the 1991 cyclone displaced millions, forcing people to migrate in search of safety and stable
living conditions.
6. Climate Change:
Long-term environmental changes, such as rising sea levels and increasing salinity in coastal
areas, threaten livelihoods and force communities to migrate to more viable regions.
Pull Factors
1. Higher Wages:
Urban areas and foreign countries typically offer higher wages compared to rural jobs. For
instance, garment workers in Dhaka earn significantly more than agricultural workers in rural
regions.
2. Job Availability:
The growth of industries, especially in urban centres, creates a demand for labour. Sectors such
as construction, services, and textiles attract migrants seeking stable employment.
3. Access to Quality Education:
Urban areas often provide better educational facilities and opportunities for higher education.
Families may migrate to cities to ensure their children receive a quality education, leading to
better future prospects.
4. Specialized Training:
Opportunities for vocational training and specialized education are more prevalent in urban
settings, attracting individuals looking to enhance their skills.
5. Established Networks:
Migrants often have family or friends in urban areas or abroad who can provide support and
resources. This network facilitates the migration process, encouraging others to join them.
6. Improved Living Conditions:
Urban areas may offer better infrastructure, healthcare, and social services, attracting individuals
seeking a higher quality of life.
7. Stable Governance:
Countries with stable political systems and low levels of corruption attract migrants seeking a
secure environment to live and work.
[Link] from Conflict:
Individuals fleeing areas of conflict often migrate to regions or countries perceived as safe and
peaceful, where they can rebuild their lives without fear of violence.
Positive Impacts of Migration in Bangladesh
1. Economic Growth and Remittances
Migration, particularly labor migration to the Middle East and other parts of the world, has
played a crucial role in Bangladesh's economy. Migrants send back a substantial amount of
remittances, which contribute to the national GDP.
Example: In 2023, Bangladesh received approximately $24 billion in remittances, making it one
of the top recipients globally. This inflow helps to stabilize the country's foreign exchange
reserves, enhances the purchasing power of families, and stimulates local economies.
2. Reduction in Poverty
Migration has proven to be an effective way to reduce poverty. Migrants, often from rural areas,
send remittances that help improve the living standards of their families. These funds are often
invested in education, healthcare, housing, and small businesses.
Example: A family in a rural area may receive remittances that allow them to send their children
to school, build a better house, and invest in agriculture or small enterprises, thus increasing their
economic resilience.
3. Skills and Knowledge Transfer
Migrants, particularly those working in skilled jobs abroad, often acquire new skills and
knowledge that can be transferred back to their home country. This includes technical skills,
business acumen, and exposure to better work ethics and practices.
Example: A Bangladeshi migrant working as an engineer in the Middle East may return to
Bangladesh after several years, bringing back valuable skills and knowledge that could benefit
industries like construction or technology.
4. Alleviating Unemployment Pressures
Migration helps reduce pressure on the domestic job market, especially in rural areas, by
providing opportunities abroad. This is crucial in a country like Bangladesh, which has a large
labor force but limited job opportunities in some sectors.
Example: Many rural youth migrate to urban centers or abroad in search of employment,
relieving the labor market pressure in rural areas and, in turn, reducing unemployment rates.
5. Cultural Exchange and Global Integration
Migration also encourages cultural exchange and helps integrate Bangladesh into the global
community. Bangladeshi migrants bring back not only financial resources but also new cultural
practices, global perspectives, and social values.
Example: Migrants who return from countries like the USA or Canada may bring back
innovative ideas about entrepreneurship or social welfare, which could influence local practices
and policies.
6. Boost to the Housing and Real Estate Sector
The inflow of remittances has created a demand for housing in many regions of Bangladesh.
Migrants, upon their return, often invest in real estate, leading to the development of new
housing projects, especially in urban areas. This has resulted in increased activity in the
construction and real estate markets.
Example: In areas like Chattogram and Dhaka, there has been a significant increase in residential
buildings and apartment complexes, driven by the savings and investments of returning migrants.
7. Improvement in Education and Healthcare Access
The financial support from migration has allowed many families to access better education and
healthcare services, which were previously out of reach. Remittances often fund private
education, healthcare treatments, and other essential services, leading to an improvement in the
overall standard of living.
Example: Migrants often fund their children’s education in private schools or abroad, providing
them with better opportunities compared to the local education system.
8. Strengthening of International Trade and Diplomatic Relations
As migration increases, it helps create a network of people who can act as informal ambassadors
or advocates for Bangladesh in their host countries. These migrant communities often promote
trade, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and other nations.
Example: Bangladeshis in the Middle East and Western countries play a key role in fostering
trade links and bilateral agreements, particularly in areas like textiles, remittances, and labor.
9. Increased Awareness of Global Issues
Migrants, especially those who travel to developed countries, often return with greater awareness
of global issues like climate change, gender equality, and political systems. This awareness can
lead to social and political changes at the grassroots level in Bangladesh.
Example: A migrant returning from a European country might introduce progressive ideas about
gender equality or environmental conservation, influencing local communities' approach to these
issues.
10. Promotion of Entrepreneurship
Many migrants, having gained international exposure and access to financial capital, are able to
start their own businesses upon returning to Bangladesh. This entrepreneurial spirit can lead to
innovation and the creation of new jobs in local economies.
Example: A migrant who has worked in the hospitality industry abroad may return and establish
a restaurant or hotel, contributing to the local economy and offering employment opportunities to
others.
Negative Impacts of Migration in Bangladesh
1. Brain Drain and Skill Shortages
While migration can lead to skills and knowledge transfer, it can also result in the loss of talented
professionals, particularly in sectors like education, healthcare, and technology. This
phenomenon, known as "brain drain," leaves a gap in essential services and professional sectors
in Bangladesh.
Example: Many doctors and engineers who migrate abroad for better opportunities often do not
return, causing a shortage of skilled professionals in the country, especially in rural and
underserved areas.
2. Social Disruption and Family Issues
Migration, particularly for labor work abroad, can lead to social disruption. Many families,
especially women and children, are left behind when male members migrate for work. This can
cause emotional strain, a breakdown in family structures, and social isolation for the left-behind
members.
Example: In many cases, children of migrant workers may suffer from a lack of parental care
and guidance, leading to psychological issues or poor academic performance.
3. Dependence on Remittances
While remittances are a significant source of income, they can also create a dependency culture.
Families may become reliant on money sent from abroad, which can limit their motivation to
engage in local economic activities or self-sustaining ventures.
Example: A rural family that relies solely on remittances for its livelihood may lose interest in
cultivating crops or starting local businesses, resulting in economic stagnation in their home area.
4. Exploitation and Human Rights Violations
Migrants, especially labor migrants, are vulnerable to exploitation, human trafficking, and human
rights abuses. Many workers, particularly those in the Middle East, face poor working
conditions, low wages, and sometimes even physical abuse.
Example: Migrant workers in construction or domestic work in the Middle East have reported
abuse and poor living conditions, with little access to legal rights or proper compensation.
5. Impact on Social Cohesion and Identity
Migration can also have long-term effects on the social fabric and identity of communities. As
large numbers of people migrate, it may lead to the breakdown of traditional community ties and
the erosion of local customs.
Example: In urban areas like Dhaka, the influx of migrant workers from rural parts of the
country has sometimes led to social fragmentation, with little integration between migrant
communities and long-term residents.
6. Decline in Agricultural Workforce
In rural areas, a large number of young adults migrate in search of better opportunities, leading to
a shortage of labor in the agricultural sector. This has caused a decline in agricultural
productivity, as younger generations are no longer interested in farming.
Example: In rural areas of Barishal, many young men have left for the Middle East or Dhaka,
leaving elderly parents to manage agricultural work, leading to a reduction in crop yields.
7. Cultural and Generational Divide
Migration can sometimes cause a cultural shift, especially when migrants return after spending
many years abroad. This often leads to a generational divide, where returning migrants and
younger generations adopt more modern, globalized lifestyles, while older generations cling to
traditional practices.
Example: A migrant who has spent several years in the New York city may return with more
modern views on social norms, education, and gender roles, which may conflict with the
traditional practices of their parents.
8. Increased Social Inequality
While migration offers opportunities to some, it can also exacerbate social inequality. Those who
are unable to migrate or benefit from remittances may feel left behind, leading to increased social
stratification within communities.
Example: In a village, families that have members working abroad may experience improved
economic conditions, while those who cannot migrate may remain in poverty, causing tensions
between different social groups.
9. Health Risks from Migration
Migrant workers, particularly those working in poor conditions abroad, may face significant
health risks. These workers often suffer from occupational hazards, lack of access to healthcare,
and exposure to infectious diseases, which they may bring back to Bangladesh upon returning.
Example: A migrant worker returning from the Middle East may bring back diseases like
tuberculosis or other infectious conditions, affecting public health systems in Bangladesh.
10. Loss of Cultural Heritage
As migration becomes more widespread, the connection to local cultural traditions can begin to
erode. The younger generation, particularly those who grow up in migrant communities abroad
or in urban settings, may lose touch with their cultural roots.
Example: Many children of migrant workers in urban areas may no longer speak their native
languages fluently or follow local customs, resulting in a loss of traditional practices in the
community.
Causes of Migration in Bangladesh
1. Unemployment and Lack of Job Opportunities
A major push factor driving both internal and international migration in Bangladesh is the lack of
adequate job opportunities. The country’s growing population, especially among the youth, has
created high levels of unemployment, particularly in rural areas where agricultural jobs are
limited and underpaid.
Example: Many young people from rural areas, such as Barishal or Khulna, migrate to Dhaka or
other urban centers in search of work. Similarly, numerous migrants head to the Middle East and
Southeast Asia for labor-intensive jobs, where there are more employment prospects.
2. Low Wages in Rural Areas
In rural Bangladesh, agricultural work is often seasonal and poorly remunerated. This economic
hardship drives individuals to migrate to urban centers or abroad in search of higher-paying jobs.
Example: A farmer in rural Bangladesh who earns a meager income from agriculture may
migrate to a Middle Eastern country for construction work, where the wages are significantly
higher, allowing them to support their family back home.
3. Rural to Urban Migration for Better Opportunities
Urban centers like Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet offer better economic prospects, such as
higher wages, a diverse labor market, and more career growth opportunities. This has led to a
significant migration from rural to urban areas in search of better living conditions and
employment.
Example: Dhaka's rapid urbanization has attracted many people from rural Bangladesh,
particularly for jobs in the garment industry or construction sector.
4. Natural Disasters and Climate Change
Bangladesh is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, frequently experiencing
floods, cyclones, river erosion, and droughts. These natural calamities often destroy homes,
livelihoods, and infrastructure, prompting large numbers of people to migrate to safer areas or
urban centers.
Example: People from coastal regions like the Sundarbans, who are affected by rising sea levels
and frequent cyclones, often migrate to Dhaka or other cities in search of safer living conditions
and employment.
5. Agricultural Failures Due to Climate Change
The adverse effects of climate change, such as unpredictable weather patterns, droughts, and
floods, have disrupted traditional farming practices, leaving many farmers struggling to survive.
This pushes rural populations to migrate either to urban areas within Bangladesh or abroad for
work.
Example: A farmer in northern Bangladesh might experience crop failure due to drought or
flood, prompting them to migrate to cities or even to Middle Eastern countries where they can
find work to support their families.
6. Political Instability and Conflict
Internal political instability and conflict can lead to forced migration. In Bangladesh, political
unrest, strikes, and violence in certain regions have caused people to leave their homes in search
of safety and stability, either migrating within the country or seeking refuge abroad.
Example: During periods of political tension or strikes, people from conflict zones, such as parts
of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, may migrate to Dhaka for safety and better prospects.
7. Access to Better Education and Healthcare
Migration, particularly of young people, is often driven by the desire to gain access to better
education. Bangladesh's rural areas face a shortage of quality educational institutions, which
motivates students to migrate to urban areas for further studies.
Example: Students from rural areas of Bangladesh migrate to Dhaka or other cities to attend
better schools or universities, seeking better educational opportunities and a brighter future.
8. Social Networks and Family Connections
Once migration networks are established, they often become a key pull factor. Migrants who
have already settled abroad or in urban areas often send back remittances or provide support to
their relatives, encouraging them to join them in these new locations.
Example: A person who has migrated to the Middle East might encourage a cousin or relative
from their village to join them for work, creating a cycle of migration within families.
9.. High Demand for Labor in the Middle East and Other Countries
One of the most prominent reasons for international migration from Bangladesh is the demand
for low-wage labor in countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and Malaysia. Bangladesh
has a large pool of unskilled and semi-skilled workers who are attracted to these regions due to
the promise of higher wages and improved living conditions.
Example: Construction workers, domestic helpers, and drivers from Bangladesh migrate to the
Gulf countries due to the high demand for labor, contributing to significant remittances sent back
home.
10. Economic Opportunities Abroad
Many Bangladeshi migrants seek to improve their standard of living by migrating to countries
with higher economic prospects. These migrants are often in search of skilled or semi-skilled
work, such as in healthcare, education, and technical fields.
Example: A nurse from Bangladesh may migrate to the UK or the USA where the demand for
healthcare workers is high, seeking better career prospects and a higher standard of living.
11. Desire for Better Living Standards
Some individuals migrate to improve their standard of living, driven by aspirations to live in
societies that offer more advanced infrastructure, healthcare, and living conditions. This desire to
“upgrade” their lifestyle often leads people to seek opportunities in countries with better living
conditions.
Example: People from rural Bangladesh may aspire to live in countries where the living
standards are perceived to be higher, such as in Western countries, which often leads to
international migration.
12. Religious Pilgrimages and Migration for Religious Education
Another form of migration is religious migration, where individuals move to particular locations
for religious purposes. While it might not be as prevalent as labor migration, religious migration
is an important factor in some regions.
Example: Bangladeshi Muslims migrate to Saudi Arabia for religious pilgrimages such as Hajj or
Umrah, or for religious studies in institutions like the International Islamic University in
Malaysia.
Arifa Akter
Adjunct Lecturer
Department of Humanities and Social Science
Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX)
Email: arifaayat588@[Link]