Sumon Corraya

Bangladesh relies heavily on remittances from migrant workers in the Gulf or Southeast Asia. While up until 2017 a million workers were leaving each year, by 2020 there were only 200,000. Many now rely on informal money transfer systems.

Two high school students received their first dose of Pfizer yesterday. At least 3.5 million vaccines have been donated by the United States. At present, students attend classes on alternate days.

After serving for many years as a pathologist in Bangladeshi hospitals, Sister Mary Emily talks about her ministry in the seminary library where she helps young people grow in wisdom.

Together, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians call on the government to provide them with greater protection. The Muslim who posted photo on social media that led to clashes was arrested.

Since 13 October, sectarian violence has intensified and now minorities feel endangered. Catholic man sees no room for minorities, and is ready to leave to protect himself and his family. Investigations are ongoing into the clashes in Chandpur which caused seven deaths.

A few days ago, another 47 ethnic Santal received the sacrament of Christian initiation in the parish of Bhutahara Quasi. “We have been visiting these villages for over seven years,” said Fr Swapon Purification. “More than 70 people will receive the baptism this Wednesday.” “In the past I worshipped nature and trees,” one of the newly baptised said. “Now I turn to Jesus in my prayers.”

The violence follows the alleged desecration of a Qurʼān during the Hindu festival of Durga Puja. For Bangladesh’s Religious Affairs Minister, restoring peace is the priority, people urged not to take justice in their own hands.

The Bangladesh Police Welfare Trust has inaugurated a new drug rehabilitation centre. Experts warn that during the pandemic drug use has increased among people of all ages. For the director of a rehab centre run by Caritas rehab, “more awareness around the issue of mental health” is needed.

Founded 70 years ago by PIME missionaries, the congregation is the second largest in Bangladesh with 34 houses.

Over 50,000 women have returned to Bangladesh due to the pandemic. They can't find work and have debts they can't pay. One woman was the victim of violence and did not receive her wages. Research shows that returnees face prejudices at home that make social reintegration difficult.

The 15-year-old was on her way home from school. A man dragged her into the forest to rape her. She was rescued by a rickshaw driver. The community took to the streets demanding greater safety for youth and severe penalties for those who commit such crimes.

The police brought down an online house of cards. Thousands of people did not receive the products they bought. One retailer lost his business and more.