Amy Pope, the Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), arrived in Dhaka today for a significant visit that highlights migration and the Rohingya crisis. Her visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and the United Nations, which will see various UN agency leaders visiting Bangladesh throughout the year.
During her stay from May 5 to May 9, Amy Pope will begin her schedule with a visit to the Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar, showcasing her commitment to addressing one of the most urgent humanitarian crises in the region. This visit marks her first trip to Bangladesh since taking office as the first female Director General of IOM on October 1, 2023. Prior to her appointment at IOM, Pope served as a senior advisor on immigration issues to U.S. President Joe Biden and was Deputy Homeland Security Advisor under former President Barack Obama.
In Dhaka, Pope is scheduled to meet with key Bangladeshi officials, including Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud, to discuss further cooperation on migration issues. She will also hold talks with the State Minister for Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment, Shafiqur Rahman Chowdhury, focusing on the welfare of Bangladeshi expatriates and foreign employment strategies.
Amy Pope’s visit underlines the ongoing partnership between Bangladesh and international bodies like the IOM in tackling migration challenges and supporting displaced populations such as the Rohingya. Her engagements in Dhaka are expected to strengthen collaborative efforts and bring renewed international attention to the plight of refugees in the region.