Rising HIV Risks Among Bangladeshi Migrant Workers

The life of a young Bangladeshi migrant worker took an abrupt and distressing turn during his first year of employment in the Middle East. Having travelled abroad to support his family financially and repay personal loans, he initially anticipated stability and growth. However, within months, he began experiencing persistent fever, fatigue, and weakness. Routine health screenings, including an HIV test, revealed that he had contracted the virus.

Following the diagnosis, the host country’s health ministry immediately informed the local immigration authorities. Within days, his visa was revoked, his work permit cancelled, and he was repatriated without access to medical treatment or counselling. What was meant to be the start of a promising overseas career ended abruptly due to a health condition.

According to Bangladesh’s National AIDS/STD Control Programme (NASCP), the prevalence of HIV among returning migrant workers is increasing. In 2025, out of 1,891 newly diagnosed HIV cases in Bangladesh, 12% involved returning migrant workers.

Experts point to prolonged separation from family, limited awareness of safe sexual practices, and restricted access to healthcare in host countries as key factors elevating HIV risk among migrants. In many Gulf nations, a positive HIV diagnosis automatically triggers visa cancellation and rapid repatriation, a policy that human rights advocates describe as harsh and discriminatory.

Mīr, President of Brave Dimension Global, noted: “Once a migrant worker becomes ill, there is no opportunity for treatment. Medications or continued employment are not considered.” Returning workers often face social stigma, reduced income, and severe psychological stress. Government support is limited, and most counselling and rehabilitation services are provided by non-governmental organisations.

Specialists recommend comprehensive pre-departure health education and HIV awareness campaigns, bilateral agreements to prevent automatic expulsion for health reasons, and structured reintegration programmes offering employment and mental health support upon return. Tasnim Siddiqui, Executive Director of Ramru, emphasised: “Protecting migrant health is the shared responsibility of both the sending and host countries. Expulsion due to HIV or other diseases constitutes a human rights violation.”

With nearly one million Bangladeshi migrant workers abroad, ensuring their health and well-being through education, awareness, and international cooperation is critical to safeguarding both individuals and communities.