Jatiya Nagarik Committee plans overseas expansion

The Jatiya Nagorik Committee is set to form new committees overseas, confirmed spokesperson Samanta Sharmin.

This initiative aims to unite two key groups of expatriates: intellectuals and creative professionals, as well as immigrant workers.

Explaining the motivation behind this move, Samanta Sharmin told Dhaka Tribune: "Our goal is to connect the intellectual and creative talents abroad with the hardworking immigrant workers. During the July Uprising, we witnessed immense enthusiasm through the hashtag #ReverseBrainDrainBD. Many Bangladeshis abroad expressed their willingness to contribute to the country's reform using their skills and expertise. This inspired us to engage with them more formally."

Sharmin emphasized that Bangladesh's current structure struggles to accommodate the contributions of skilled expatriates effectively. The new overseas committees are expected to bridge this gap, offering expatriates avenues to contribute to national development.

Moreover, Spokesperson Samanta Sharmin said: “Immigrants are currently unable to vote in national elections. This is a critical issue, and we shall work towards ensuring their voices are represented in the democratic process.”

Regarding the estimated time of when the committees shall be announced, Samanta Sharmin said: “It’s a complex process, the work is underway.”