New IOM Bangladesh chief presents credentials to FM

“I sincerely welcome Dr Laura Tomm Bonde to Bangladesh as the chief of mission and look forward to continuing the strong partnership between the Government of Bangladesh and IOM,” said the foreign minister, according to a press release.

Tomm Bonde assumes her role at a pivotal time, as Bangladesh navigates diverse migration dynamics from expanding opportunities for safe and regular labour migration to hosting over one million Rohingyas who fled violence in Myanmar, one of the largest protracted displacement situations globally.

“The overall migration landscape in Bangladesh is highly dynamic and presents both opportunities and challenges,” said Tomme Bonde. “I look forward to working closely with the Government to ensure that the migrants’ rights are protected and that migration contributes meaningfully to sustainable development through well governed and inclusive migration systems.”

Addressing climate-induced displacement and disaster risks stemming from Bangladesh’s exposure to climate shocks such as floods, cyclones, droughts, and salinity intrusion, the new chief of mission reaffirmed IOM’s readiness to support Bangladesh in enhancing regular migration pathways and advancing whole-of-government and regional approaches to climate mobility.

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The IOM chief of mission reaffirmed the organisation’s continued commitment to supporting the Bangladesh government across the full migration cycle, including strengthening safe and regular labour migration, enhancing health and pre-departure services, reinforcing border governance, and supporting protection and reintegration for vulnerable migrants.

She further underscored IOM’s continued prioritisation of the Rohingya response, delivering life-saving assistance and supporting affected host communities in Cox’s Bazar.

A Canadian citizen, Tomm Bonde previously served as IOM Chief of Mission in Mozambique for six and a half years.