Bangladesh has been ranked in Tier 2 in the US Department of State’s 2025 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, acknowledging the country’s continued progress in combating human trafficking despite persistent challenges linked to governance transitions and migration pressures.

The report stated that Bangladesh “does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so.”

According to the TIP report, Bangladesh made notable advances in victim protection, institutional reforms, and inter-agency coordination. The adoption of a National Referral Mechanism (NRM) was praised as a major milestone in strengthening the country’s anti-trafficking framework.

Authorities identified 1,462 trafficking victims during the reporting period—up from 1,210 last year—and referred them to protection services offering healthcare, legal aid, and shelter. The government also expanded training for police, immigration, and labour officers on trauma-informed and victim-sensitive procedures.

The report commended Bangladesh’s cooperation with INTERPOL, India, and South Africa in investigating transnational trafficking networks, as well as its efforts to strengthen special tribunals and enhance coordination among the CID, PBI, and CTTC.

Under the National Anti-Human Trafficking Authority, the government allocated Tk 621.49 million for prevention and awareness programs, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Awareness campaigns were conducted nationwide in Bangla and English to promote safe migration and labour rights.

Bangladesh also expanded bilateral labour agreements with countries such as Malaysia, South Korea, and Brunei, and drafted a National Reintegration Policy for returning migrants, including trafficking survivors.

While challenges remain, the report said Bangladesh’s Tier 2 ranking reflects strong political will and a sustained commitment to fighting human trafficking and protecting vulnerable populations.

MN/