Migration from Bangladesh - Info sheet

Migration from Bangladesh to the United Kingdom has its roots in the 18th and 19th centuries, originating from the Sylhet region of what is now Bangladesh. The earliest migrants were sailors who arrived on ships, marking the beginning of what would become a significant Bangladeshi community in the UK. Unlike other South Asian groups, the bulk of Bangladeshi settlers arrived more recently, particularly after the tumultuous events leading up to the establishment of Bangladesh as an independent nation. The partition of India and creation of Pakistan in 1947, which included East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), and subsequent civil unrest were pivotal moments that drove many from the Sylhet region to seek refuge and a new life in the UK.

Upon arrival, many of these migrants made East London their new home, an area already rich with a history of immigrant settlement, including Eastern European Jews and those fleeing from Nazi Germany before World War II. The Bangladeshi immigrants initially found employment in industries such as steel and textiles. However, as these sectors declined, they adapted by establishing small businesses, particularly in tailoring and the food service industry. The "Indian" restaurants and takeaways that have become a staple across the UK are predominantly owned and operated by individuals from the Bangladeshi community. This migration has had a lasting impact on the cultural and economic landscape of Britain over the past century, contributing to the diverse tapestry of communities found throughout the country.