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Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Wednesday said the newly enacted Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Act, 2026 will play a crucial role in curbing crimes facilitated through digital platforms and modern technology.
Speaking at a national dissemination meeting held at the Hotel InterContinental Dhaka, the minister noted that Bangladesh has strengthened its legal and institutional framework to match international standards, keeping pace with evolving tactics used by transnational criminal networks.
The event was jointly organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Justice and Care Bangladesh.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Salahuddin said the new law ensures stronger coordination among agencies, enhances investigation and prosecution, and adopts a victim-centred justice system.
He highlighted that the legislation clearly distinguishes between human trafficking and migrant smuggling, improves protection for victims and witnesses, and promotes international cooperation.
It also incorporates the globally recognised principle of not punishing victims of trafficking.
The meeting was chaired by Senior Secretary Manzur Morshed Chowdhury and attended by key officials, including Asad Alam Siam, Sarah Cooke and Brent T. Christensen, alongside top representatives from law enforcement and security agencies.
Participants stressed the importance of stronger inter-agency coordination and sustained cooperation at both national and international levels to effectively implement the law, dismantle trafficking networks and ensure justice.
Mohammad Tarikul Islam presented the background and key provisions of the new legislation, while representatives from government bodies, law enforcement agencies, international organisations and civil society were also present.
