Published: 11:06 PM, 28 August 2026
Harassing Passengers at Airports Must Be Stopped
Airports are the gateways of a country. For Bangladesh, where millions of people travel abroad every year for work, education, business and family reasons, airports are more than transit points. They are often the first and last impression of the country. Unfortunately, complaints of harassment, unnecessary questioning, poor service and intimidating behaviour at airports have repeatedly raised concerns among passengers, particularly migrant workers.
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka has taken several initiatives to improve passenger services. Yet complaints about misconduct, delays, luggage handling and difficulties involving airport personnel and other service providers continue to create frustration among travellers.
Migrant workers are among those who can be particularly vulnerable. Many of them come from rural and lower-income backgrounds. They may have limited knowledge of complicated airport procedures and may be travelling abroad for the first time. Instead of receiving guidance and respectful assistance, some passengers face unnecessary questioning or intimidating treatment.
Such behaviour cannot be justified in the name of security. Airport authorities, immigration officials, customs officers and security personnel have important responsibilities. They must prevent trafficking, smuggling, illegal migration and other crimes. Security checks and immigration procedures are therefore necessary. However, security does not mean that passengers should be humiliated, threatened or subjected to unnecessary harassment.
There is an important distinction between legitimate questioning and harassment. An officer may lawfully ask a passenger about travel documents, destination, purpose of travel or other relevant matters. But questions should be asked professionally and within the limits of the officer's authority. Passengers should be treated with dignity regardless of their occupation, income, education or social status. Bangladesh also needs to recognize the economic importance of its migrant workers. Remittances sent home by expatriate Bangladeshis support millions of families and contribute significantly to the national economy. These workers should be treated as valued citizens, not as people who must prove their worth at every stage of their journey.
A passenger-friendly airport does not mean a security-free airport. Rather, it means an airport where security procedures are efficient, transparent and respectful. Officials should receive regular training in customer service, communication and professional conduct. Complaints against staff should be investigated promptly, and proven misconduct should result in appropriate disciplinary action.
