In a bygone era, a spectacle of John Lennon, adorned in white, accompanied by his Japanese spouse, serenaded with the lyrics, “Imagine there’s no countries; it isn’t hard to do.” Concepts like “globalisation,” “glasnost,” “fall of the Berlin Wall,” and “end of apartheid” fueled the notion of a borderless world. However, the advent of Brexit erected another barrier, reminiscent of a brick in the wall, where barriers became fashionable to deter unauthorized entrants, akin to the scenario in the film World War Z.
Migration, a fundamental human inclination, necessitates regulation. The envisioned global village is transitioning into a guarded community with vigilant gatekeepers. The recent Henley Passport Index reflects a decline in the value of our passport, dropping from 97th place to 100th. This places us among countries like North Korea, Libya, and Afghanistan, with only 38 nations offering visa-on-arrival privileges.
Travelling to other destinations for Bangladeshi nationals often proves challenging. Instances of travelers facing extended interrogations or concerns over entry denial despite possessing valid visas are common. The scrutiny, phone calls to supervisors, and the unease among fellow travelers are routine experiences for Bangladeshi passport holders.
Many economists attribute this phenomenon to a “demand drag,” indicating a lack of desirability among our travelers. Heightened concerns over asylum applications, illegal migration routes, and forged documents have led countries to exercise caution when processing Bangladeshi visa applications.
Europe has witnessed a surge in asylum applications from Bangladeshis, with Frontex identifying Bangladesh as the most detected nationality on irregular migration routes. Accounts of exploitation, such as migrants held captive for ransom or refugees engaging in criminal activities, have further fueled stringent border control measures in Western countries.
The limitations of our passport are evident when even transit passage through certain countries is denied to Bangladeshi travelers. The need for airport transit visas for layovers in specific locations has become a common inconvenience for Bangladeshi passport holders.
Beyond Western gatekeeping, it is crucial to acknowledge the role we play in tarnishing our international reputation. Instances of fraudulent documentation or misuse of visas by some individuals adversely impact the credibility of all Bangladeshi travelers.
The continuous decline in passport rankings underscores the battered national identity we present. Real change requires concerted efforts from both the state and its citizens to restore trust and credibility, as a stronger passport is earned through sustained integrity and cooperation.
In the realm of practicality, actions such as enhancing data security, transparency, and fostering diplomatic relations are essential for improving visa liberalization and mobility agreements. A shift towards proactive measures to curb irregular migration and promote genuine documentation is imperative to rebuild trust with other nations.
Ultimately, the journey towards a stronger passport demands a collective commitment to integrity and responsibility from all stakeholders. It is not a privilege bestowed upon us but a testament to our credibility and trustworthiness on the global stage.