Dhaka: The government has issued a stern warning against human trafficking networks and illegal migration syndicates following recent deaths of Bangladeshi migrants in the Mediterranean Sea while attempting to reach Europe through the Libya route.

At a meeting on migration and mobility held at the State Guest House Padma in Dhaka on May 11, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said the government would take strict legal action against those involved in facilitating irregular migration, read a press release.

She reiterated the “zero tolerance” stance of the government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman toward illegal migration and warned that “unscrupulous syndicates” operating such networks would be brought under the law.

The meeting was convened by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the wake of growing concern over dangerous migration attempts by Bangladeshis traveling to Italy through Libya.

Foreign Affairs Ministry Secretary, Ambassador of Italy to Bangladesh, Chargé d’Affaires of Libya, Chief of Mission of International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Dhaka, and senior government officials attended the meeting.

During the discussion, the Italian Ambassador informed participants that the European Union is set to introduce a new regulation on asylum and migration in June 2026, which would make obtaining legal status through irregular migration more difficult.

Participants stressed the need to expand safe, orderly, and regular migration channels by enhancing skills training and language proficiency among prospective migrants. The meeting also emphasized linking skill development programs with overseas employment opportunities and increasing cooperation with employers in destination countries to create employment-guaranteed migration pathways.

The state minister also highlighted the importance of engaging the Bangladeshi diaspora more actively in contributing remittances, investment, expertise, and innovative ideas in support of the government’s “Bangladesh First” vision.

The meeting ended with participants agreeing to strengthen coordinated efforts to curb illegal migration while promoting humane, rights-based, and regular migration systems.