Bangladesh profits in billions of dollars annually from the work done abroad by its international workers. The typical story presents a view of Bangladeshi workers who are educated and well-trained professionals, who manage to get jobs in higher positions in foreign companies as a result of their education. This is not the case as most remittances come from poor workers who have the most difficult and dangerous jobs in the world, such as labourers in factories, caregivers and homes, and jobs on farms and in cyclones, in the Middle East, Malaysia, Singapore and Europe. The remittance money these workers send home is not from their abundance, but from their sacrifice to provide for their families. Household income, foreign reserves and economic stability depend on the remittances these workers send. However, they remain invisible and unappreciated.
The Importance of Low-Income Employees as Compared to White Collar Migrant Workers
In contrast to low-income migrant workers, white collar migrant workers usually come with dependents and get paid a higher salary and also spend more while abroad; therefore, their overall contribution to remittances is less. The majority of the money that low-income migrant workers earn goes directly back into their home countries. This helps to provide education, shelter, medical care, and foster local growth within Bangladesh.
Low-income workers continue to send significant amounts of money to their home country, and as such, despite the difficult conditions they endure both in relation to their working environment and cultural issues, the amount of money they send continuously supports the continued viability of Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserve and often surpasses the dollars Bangladesh receives from exports and foreign direct investments.
Comparison Table: Low-Income vs. White-Collar Migrant Contribution
| Category | Low-Income Workers | White-Collar Migrants |
| Salary Level | Low to Moderate | High |
| Percentage Sent Home | Very High | Low to Moderate |
| Family Abroad | Rarely | Frequently |
| Main Destinations | Middle East, Asia | Europe, USA, Canada |
| Impact on Bangladesh’s GDP | Very High | Moderate |
Time to Recognise the True Heroes
Bangladesh’s progress is built on the sacrifices of low-income migrant workers—not those with privilege. These workers leave their families, endure harsh conditions, and send most of their earnings home. They deserve dignity, protection, and fair rights. Honouring their contribution isn’t optional—it’s necessary for the nation’s future.
FAQs
1. Who contributes the most remittance to Bangladesh?
Low-income migrants contribute the highest share of remittances compared to white-collar workers.
2. Why don’t white-collar workers send more money home?
They typically migrate with families and build lives abroad, reducing the need to send money home.
3. How can Bangladesh support these remittance heroes?
Through labour rights protection, fair contracts, legal migration systems, and reduced remittance fees.
Read Also: New Life on the Chars: How Bangladesh’s River Islands Became Agricultural Powerhouses
