Oxfam today launched 'Bridge to Bangladesh,' a first-of-its-kind digital platform aimed at connecting the global Bangladeshi diaspora with the country's development priorities by facilitating knowledge exchange, investment linkages, mentorship and professional collaboration. The platform, comprising a website and mobile application, was formally launched at a function in Dhaka attended by senior government officials, representatives of civil society and international organisations, diaspora leaders and journalists.
Platform Features and Objectives
Developed by Oxfam in Bangladesh, the platform seeks to engage more than 2.4 million Bangladeshis living abroad by enabling them to contribute knowledge, skills, innovation, advocacy, philanthropy, mentorship and investment linkages through verified organisations and individuals in Bangladesh. The platform offers verified user profiles, smart matchmaking, mentorship opportunities, community forums and impact-tracking tools, allowing diaspora members and local institutions to collaborate transparently through knowledge sharing, advocacy, professional networking and development initiatives.
Government and Diaspora Support
Speaking at the launching ceremony, Secretary (Bilateral - East & West) of the foreign ministry Dr. Nazrul Islam said members of the Bangladeshi diaspora are keen to contribute to the country's development, but sustained engagement requires greater trust and stronger institutional support. He highlighted the need for reforms, noting that many expatriate Bangladeshis and foreign investors remain interested in investing in Bangladesh but often face obstacles stemming from a lack of trust, inadequate government services and weak institutional connectivity.
Secretary of the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Md. Mokhtar Ahmed said the initiative complements the government's ongoing efforts to strengthen engagement with the Bangladeshi diaspora and could significantly support the implementation of the forthcoming diaspora policy. Joining the programme virtually, British lawmaker Apsana Begum and Chair of the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group on Bangladesh, said the Bangladeshi diaspora has consistently stood beside the country during national crises, humanitarian emergencies and major political transitions. She expressed hope that the platform would provide a practical avenue for British Bangladeshis and other overseas communities to contribute their expertise and experience to Bangladesh's development.
Research and Development
According to Oxfam, the platform is the outcome of a two-year research initiative conducted between June 2024 and June 2026, which included a global survey of Bangladeshi diaspora members across 12 countries, consultations with international experts, analysis of 11 diaspora engagement platforms worldwide and workshops involving non-governmental organisations and civil society representatives. The research identified trust, credibility, verification and effective matchmaking as the key pillars for meaningful diaspora engagement.
