Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ A transformative initiative titled ‘Bridge to Bangladesh’ was officially launched in London on Saturday, marking a bold new chapter in harnessing the strength and skills of the UK-based Bangladeshi diaspora to support Bangladesh’s long-term development goals.
The launch event, described as a pivotal moment for diaspora diplomacy, brought together policymakers, academics, diaspora leaders, diplomats, and second-generation changemakers. The message was clear: diaspora engagement must evolve from sentimental remittances to strategic nation-building.
“Our diaspora has done far more than just send money home,” said Abida Islam, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to the UK. “They’ve built communities, shaped public discourse, and stood by the nation through its trials. Bridge to Bangladesh recognizes this legacy and calls upon the diaspora to co-author the future of Bangladesh.”
The British Bangladeshi community, one of the most prominent and influential diaspora populations globally, now serves as a vital partner in Bangladesh’s development journey. With over 650,000 members across the UK, the diaspora’s growing presence in sectors such as politics, academia, healthcare, and business underscores its immense potential.
Key urban centres like Tower Hamlets, Birmingham, and Luton are home to a vibrant diaspora with deep-rooted ties to Bangladesh. This community contributes over $1.5 billion annually in remittances, making the UK the second-largest source of such funds after the United States. Yet, experts say this financial support is only scratching the surface of what the diaspora can truly offer.
Beyond Remittances: Building a Platform for Action
The Bridge to Bangladesh platform, launched in collaboration with Oxfam GB, is envisioned as a multi-functional ecosystem. It will provide diaspora members with structured opportunities to connect with Bangladesh through investment matchmaking, policy advocacy, youth engagement, diplomatic collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
Ashish Damle, Oxfam’s Country Director in Bangladesh, emphasized that this initiative goes far beyond nostalgia or charity.
“This is about nation-building,” Damle said. “The diaspora holds capital, yes but more importantly, it holds ideas, networks, and influence. Through this platform, we aim to unlock that collective power and channel it into sustainable, inclusive development.”
In her remarks, Halima Begum, Chief Executive of Oxfam GB and herself of Bangladeshi heritage, shared a powerful reflection:
“For over five decades, Oxfam has walked alongside Bangladesh through crisis and celebration. Today, we’re proud to stand with the diaspora with people like me, who carry Bangladesh in our hearts even from afar.”
Creating a Framework for Long-Term Engagement
A recurring theme during the launch was the need for a structured framework to better leverage the diaspora’s potential. According to experts and diaspora leaders, Bangladesh currently lacks robust mechanisms to facilitate meaningful, sustained collaboration with its overseas citizens.
“Development without dignity will fail,” warned Professor Naomi Hossain from SOAS University of London. “If we want the diaspora to contribute, their involvement must be grounded in equity, respect, and partnership.”
Echoing this, Baroness Pola Uddin, a member of the UK’s House of Lords, praised the initiative as “a timely structure for collective ambition,” stating:
“The diaspora is not just an extension of Bangladesh it is a living, breathing part of it.”
Engaging a New Generation
Crucially, Bridge to Bangladesh is also focused on bridging generational divides by inviting second-generation British Bangladeshis to engage with their heritage not only emotionally, but also economically and intellectually.
The platform promises to serve as a launchpad for youth leadership, global advocacy, and innovation rooted in cultural identity.
Aziz-ur Rahman, Patron of Oxfam GB, moderated the launch event, which also featured a presentation from Md. Sariful Islam, Head of Influencing, Communications, Advocacy, & Media (ICAM) at Oxfam Bangladesh. We invited the audience to officially sign up and participate in the platform’s activities.
What’s Next?
The Bridge to Bangladesh initiative is now live, complete with an official website. Organizers are calling on UK-based Bangladeshis, from seasoned entrepreneurs to university students, to register and become part of this ambitious movement.
As the world becomes more interconnected, this initiative offers a promising blueprint for diaspora-led development, blending heritage with innovation and identity with impact.
“This isn’t just about reconnecting with where we’re from,” said one participant. “It’s about creating a future that includes all of us.”
