Diaspora democracy: Calling for parliamentary representation for expatriates

As Bangladesh moves forward with significant political reforms, it is time to address a cause célèbre that affects over 15 million Bangladeshis living abroad. The country's diaspora plays a vital role, not only through their remittances but also as porte-paroles for democracy and human rights—values they have championed internationally during critical periods of unrest in Bangladesh.

In the recent July-August uprising, Bangladeshi expatriates in cities like Paris, New York, Berlin, and Sydney raised their voices in solidarity with the movement back home, urging change and democratic reforms. This visible and vocal support from the diaspora underscores their raison d'être—a commitment to a better Bangladesh. Given their contributions, it is high time the country considered reserved seats for expatriates in the national parliament, a move that would signal true inclusivity.

The lifeblood of Bangladesh's economy

Remittances from expatriates are Bangladesh's mainstay for foreign exchange, amounting to over $20 billion annually. This inflow fuels household consumption, local businesses, and national development, keeping the economy en pointe amidst ongoing financial pressures. According to the Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET), approximately 15 million Bangladeshi expatriates are spread across the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Australia.

This diaspora, however, does far more than support the economy. They serve as ambassadors for Bangladeshi culture and advocate for the country's best interests within their respective communities abroad. Their involvement during the July-August uprising is a testament to their dedication. 

Yet, despite this tour de force, they remain without representation in parliament—a glaring omission in a democracy striving for full representation. Reserved seats for expatriates would give them a voice in policies that directly affect them and their families.

A crucial role during the July-August uprising

During the July-August uprising, expatriates mobilised en masse—organising, rallying, and speaking out on behalf of the movement. From the Place de la République in Paris to Times Square in New York, the diaspora held rallies that underscored the urgency of reform back home. Bangladeshi communities in these global cities raised awareness through protests, social media campaigns, and meetings with international stakeholders, ensuring the world remained au courant with the situation in Bangladesh.

The "Remittance Shutdown" protest was perhaps the most dramatic statement of support from the expatriates. Many halted their remittance payments temporarily to signal disapproval of authoritarian measures back home. Though short-lived, this action sent a powerful message to the government, highlighting the expat community's influence. Such loyalty and action demonstrate that expatriates are far from blasé about events in Bangladesh—they are deeply invested in the nation's success.

Reserved seats: An avenue for inclusion

Numerous countries, including France, Turkey, Tunisia, and Morocco, have reserved parliamentary seats for their diaspora, recognising expatriates as integral voices in national discourse. Bangladesh could adopt a similar approach, assigning 15 reserved seats to expatriates. These seats could represent regions such as the Middle East, Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia, ensuring fair representation across the diaspora.

Such an initiative would not only be a coup de maître for inclusivity but also an acknowledgement of the invaluable support expatriates provide. It would offer them a means to contribute directly to policymaking, further strengthening their bond with Bangladesh.

Voting and candidacy options for expats

Introducing voting rights and candidacy opportunities for expatriates poses logistical challenges but is far from impossible. Voting could be facilitated through Bangladeshi embassies and consulates, with polling stations set up for elections. Online voting could also be introduced for those with the requisite digital literacy. Voilà—a solution that keeps expatriates engaged without requiring costly travel back to Bangladesh.

Another consideration is dual citizenship. Many Bangladeshi expatriates hold dual citizenship and, given their international connections and experience, are well-positioned to strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and their countries of residence. Allowing dual citizens to contest these reserved seats would be logical and advantageous, as they could bring savoir-faire from their host nations to Bangladesh's policymaking process.

Recognising expatriate contributions

Bangladesh's interim government, led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, has taken steps to show goodwill towards expatriates, such as inaugurating a dedicated lounge for migrant workers at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. While this initiative is bien fait, it is merely symbolic. Expatriates need more than hospitality—they need a formal role in shaping the nation's future.

In light of their éclat during the recent uprising and their ongoing contributions, expatriates deserve more than a passive role. They have proven their willingness to act as sentinelles of Bangladesh's values abroad. Granting them reserved seats in parliament would formally recognise their contributions and invite them to participate actively in the country's development.

Realising a truly inclusive Bangladeshi democracy

Bangladesh has undergone significant changes in recent years, and the July-August uprising has called for deeper transformations. While the country has moved away from authoritarianism, its democracy can only thrive if all citizens—within and beyond its borders—have a voice. The expatriate community, with its impressive contributions and unwavering commitment, deserves representation.

Reserved seats for expatriates in parliament would honour their efforts and help create a government that truly reflects the diversity of Bangladesh's population. By including expatriate voices, Bangladesh's democracy would become more robust and dynamic, evolving to meet the needs of all its citizens. The time has come for Bangladesh to extend a formal invitation to its expatriates, integrating them into the heart of its political and social life.

Mohammad Arif Ullah is a Paris-based journalist of Bangladeshi origin. He is currently working full-time for france24 and is also an active human rights defender with the prominent French rights organisation PRDH. Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.