Trafficking Ordeal of Bangladeshi Woman

A woman from Chattogram in Bangladesh, in search of a more stable and prosperous life, has endured a harrowing experience of alleged human trafficking, forced labour, physical and psychological abuse, and ultimately a deeply distressing pregnancy following her migration to Saudi Arabia. She later returned to Bangladesh in a weakened and malnourished condition.

According to available information, she travelled to Saudi Arabia in late December 2024 through an intermediary, reportedly under the impression that she would take up lawful employment abroad. Her decision was shaped by severe economic hardship, the loss of her husband at a young age, and long-standing family instability. However, the promised employment situation did not materialise upon arrival.

Instead, she was allegedly placed in conditions akin to confinement and compelled into forced labour. Reports indicate that she was subjected to repeated physical and mental abuse, had her freedom of movement restricted, and was kept under prolonged control by those managing her placement. The situation deteriorated significantly until her return to Bangladesh on 9 February 2025 due to her fragile health condition.

Following her repatriation, medical assessments confirmed that she was pregnant. On 24 May 2025, she gave birth to a baby girl while under the care of BRAC. For approximately three months thereafter, she remained under the supervision and support of BRAC alongside the Bangladesh National Woman Lawyers’ Association, before eventually returning to her home village with her child.

She has described her experience as a profound betrayal of trust, stating that she had expected employment opportunities abroad but instead encountered exploitation and treatment akin to commodification of human beings.

Her personal history reflects prolonged socio-economic vulnerability. Born in 1997 in Chattogram, she lost her father in early childhood and was raised by her grandparents. Following her mother’s remarriage, she experienced further family disruption and left home, later finding shelter in a religious institution before being taken to Dhaka by a woman. She was married during adolescence and later became widowed. Struggling with poverty and responsibility for her children, she was compelled to give one child to another family for care. She subsequently worked in a garment factory, where she came into contact with a labour recruiter who allegedly persuaded her to seek employment in Saudi Arabia for a fee of approximately 10,000 Bangladeshi taka.

Timeline of Key Events

This case highlights the persistent risks associated with irregular overseas recruitment channels, particularly for women from economically vulnerable backgrounds. It underscores continuing concerns about trafficking networks, deceptive labour migration practices, and the urgent need for stronger safeguards, awareness, and oversight in overseas employment systems.