Salima Sarwar: Consequences of Illegal Migration

From 1996: 

This presentation describes the nature and extent of the problem of trafficking in women in rural Bangladesh. More precisely, it aims to present the situation of those trafficked women who, after extremely bitter and horrid experiences, return to their home countries. They are referred to as returnees. Research by the Association for Community Development (ACD) reveals a number of social and economic problems faced by these women. They are often ostracized or made objects of gossip. Their neighbours are reluctant to accept them, as Bangladeshi society is still tradition ridden. Among these women, the most vulnerable group is the permanent returnees. Most of them are in all probability carriers of HIV/AIDS. Additionally, many women returning home resort to unlawful means. They therefore risk revenge from the flesh dealers or arrest by authorities. In either situation legal aid is rarely available to them, though ACD does sometimes extend such help.

This small scale study highlights the need for further investigation on the condition of trafficked women. It is hoped that these findings may evoke interest in persons who care for human rights.

Since 1996:

The Association for Community Development is ongoing and Salima Sarwar remains its Executive Director.