The Bangladeshi diaspora has established itself in various European countries, with notable communities thriving in the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France, and Germany. Let’s explore the success stories and their geographical distribution.
1. United Kingdom
The UK has the largest Bangladeshi community in Europe, particularly concentrated in London’s Tower Hamlets, Newham, and Camden. Several prominent Bangladeshis have made their mark in politics, business, and public service.
- Rushanara Ali: Elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Bethnal Green and Bow in 2010, becoming one of the first British MPs of Bangladeshi descent. (Source: UK Parliament records)
- Tulip Siddiq: Serving as the MP for Hampstead and Kilburn since 2015, she has been an influential voice on immigration, social justice, and education. (Source: UK Parliament records)
- Lutfur Rahman: The first directly elected mayor of Tower Hamlets in 2010, contributing to local governance and advocating for the Bangladeshi community. (Source: Electoral Commission UK)
The British Bangladeshi community also excels in business, particularly in the restaurant industry. Over 80% of the UK’s curry houses are owned by Bangladeshis, many of whom hail from Sylhet. (Source: British Curry Awards)
2. Italy
Italy has the second-largest Bangladeshi population in Europe, with around 150,692 Bangladeshis living there as of 2022. The largest communities are found in Rome, Milan, Venice, and Naples.
- Many Bangladeshis have built successful small businesses, especially in retail, clothing, and the restaurant sector.
- The community in Rome’s Torpignattara district has grown significantly, shaping the area’s culture with Bangladeshi shops, mosques, and community centers. (Source: Italian National Institute of Statistics, ISTAT)
3. Spain
Spain’s Bangladeshi community, though smaller, is concentrated in Barcelona and Madrid.
- Many work in hospitality, trade, and retail, with a growing number of entrepreneurs opening grocery stores and restaurants.
- According to the Spanish National Institute of Statistics (INE), there were over 20,000 Bangladeshis residing in Spain in 2022.
4. France
In Paris and Marseille, Bangladeshis have made strides in small businesses and community organizations.
- The Gare du Nord district in Paris has a visible Bangladeshi presence, with shops, restaurants, and cultural events connecting the community.
- The National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE) reports approximately 15,000 Bangladeshis living in France.
5. Germany
Germany’s Bangladeshi population, around 12,000 strong according to Statistisches Bundesamt (Federal Statistical Office of Germany), is mainly located in Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt.
- Many Bangladeshis in Germany work in tech, academia, and skilled labor sectors, with a rising number of students pursuing higher education in German universities.
Conclusion
The Bangladeshi diaspora across Europe shows a dynamic blend of political engagement, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural preservation. While the UK remains the epicenter of Bangladeshi success stories, communities in Italy, Spain, France, and Germany continue to grow, fostering businesses and contributing to their host countries’ economies.
