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Published : 15 Jul 2026, 05:11 PM
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has called Bangladesh's new anti-trafficking law a "significant milestone."
He expressed confidence it will play a “strict and highly effective” role in curbing human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
The minister shared this outlook as chief guest at a national awareness session on the "Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Act, 2026”, held at a Dhaka hotel on Wednesday.
"To keep pace with the constantly evolving tactics of criminal networks, we've upgraded our legal and institutional capacity to international standards,” he said.
“This law will play an effective role in curbing the misuse of digital platforms and technology by organised criminal networks.”
Salahuddin said the government remained committed to combating the two transnational crimes through “stronger legislation, effective institutional coordination and a victim-centred criminal justice system”.
Its successful implementation would require “close cooperation” among government agencies, law enforcers, the judiciary, development partners and civil society, he added.
According to him, the new law clearly defines human trafficking and migrant smuggling as separate offences, establishing an integrated legal framework to suppress and prosecute migrant smuggling as a crime.
"It has strengthened investigative and prosecutorial powers, while also reinforcing protection for victims and witnesses," he said.
The minister added that the law expands scope for international cooperation in line with global standards, while upholding the internationally recognised principle of non-punishment for victims, ensuring their dignity, rights and safety are protected at every stage of the criminal justice process.
