Safe Migration Is Part of National Security: Defence Adviser

Safe migration is not only an economic, employment or labour market issue but also an integral part of national security, Prime Minister’s Defence Adviser Brig Gen (Retd.) Dr. AKM Shamsul Islam, PSC, said on Thursday. Speaking at the Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), he said migration governance has become increasingly important in today’s evolving global and geopolitical environment, as it is closely linked to a country’s internal stability, border security, humanitarian protection and overall national security.

He made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at a programme titled “Migration Governance as a National Security Instrument in Bangladesh”, organised by BUP at its Mirpur Cantonment campus in the capital. Upon his arrival, he was received by BUP Vice-Chancellor Major General Md Mahbub-ul Alam. The event was attended by senior military and civilian officials, deans, faculty members, researchers and students.

In his address, Dr. Shamsul Islam said the concept of national security has expanded beyond safeguarding territorial integrity and borders. Ensuring safe migration, lawful employment, orderly cross-border movement, and protecting the rights and dignity of Bangladeshi citizens living abroad are now essential elements of a comprehensive national security strategy, he said.

He warned that failure to ensure safe, orderly and well-planned migration could create multidimensional challenges for internal stability, border management and regional security. Stressing the economic importance of overseas workers, he noted that remittances from Bangladeshi expatriates remain a key pillar of the national economy.

The Defence Adviser called for the development of a skilled workforce, expanded opportunities for safe and legal migration, and better training and protection for overseas job seekers. He also emphasised stronger coordination among relevant agencies to combat irregular migration, human trafficking, fraud and transnational criminal networks.

Describing Bangladeshis living abroad as valuable contributors to both the economy and the country’s international image, he said their rights, security and dignity must be protected. He also stressed the need to strengthen the state’s capacity to assist expatriates during emergencies and crises. Dr. Shamsul Islam urged the adoption of a future-oriented migration policy that integrates the economic, humanitarian, social and security dimensions of migration.

He highlighted the importance of evidence-based policymaking, reliable databases, skilled manpower and coordinated institutional efforts to improve migration governance. During the interactive session, students asked questions on migration policy, human trafficking, expatriate safety, border management, regional geopolitics and national security. Responding to the queries, the Defence Adviser reiterated the growing importance of effective migration governance in an evolving global landscape.

Concluding the programme, he praised BUP’s contributions to education, research and institutional development, expressing confidence that the university would continue to support research on issues of national importance, promote informed policy dialogue and strengthen security awareness among the younger generation.