BMET bottleneck blocks 4,000 bound for Iraq

Thousands of Bangladeshi workers seeking employment in Iraq are facing uncertainty as the issuance of immigration clearance remains suspended despite the Bangladesh Embassy in Baghdad verifying and attesting their recruitment documents. 

More than 4,000 workers are reportedly awaiting clearance through the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET), while many risk losing their visas and medical test validity after borrowing money to finance their overseas employment, according to the intending migrants.

According to the allegation, the suspension reportedly followed an oral instruction from Mokhtar Ahmed, secretary of the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment. BMET Additional Director General Zillur Rahman recently told the media that clearance for Iraq-bound workers would resume once the secretary provided the necessary verbal instruction.

The affected workers have appealed to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to intervene and resolve the deadlock, warning that further delays could cause financial losses and jeopardise their employment opportunities.

When contacted over phone, Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Secretary Mokhtar Ahmed, however, claimed that the clearance is not completely stalled. But, the number of clearance reduced due to complete verification of visas by the Bangladesh Embassy in Baghdad and relevant authorities.

“Earlier, huge numbers of clearances were given. Due to that reasons, many people travelled the country but did not get jobs. Considering the issue, the instruction was given,” he added.

Iraq’s labour market reopened after a seven-year gap during the previous interim government following sustained efforts by private recruiting agencies. More than 20,000 Bangladeshi workers subsequently secured jobs there. Workers reportedly earn around US$400 a month, with employers covering accommodation and food costs.

Sabbir Khan, Md. Yasin, Md. Titon, Md. Sohel, Md. Rubel, Abdul Matin and Md. Zia said effective government and embassy support could create employment opportunities for at least 100,000 Bangladeshis in Iraq within six months.