Championing Migrants in Chattogram: Sister Zita Rema’s Lifelong Mission

CHATTOGRAM, Bangladesh — In the heart of Bangladesh’s bustling port city of Chattogram, a 67-year-old Catholic sister is making a significant impact on the lives of thousands of internal and international migrants. Sister Zita Rema, known affectionately as the “Mother of Migrants,” has dedicated decades to advocating for the poor, displaced, and forgotten members of society. Her work is vital in a city where many migrants face discrimination, unsafe working conditions, and emotional isolation.

Sister Zita, a member of the Salesian Sisters of Mary Immaculate, leads the Migrant Desk of the Archdiocese of Chattogram. The local Catholic community comprises around 3,000 individuals, including migrant workers and expatriates from various countries such as India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Nigeria, Uganda, and South Korea. Additionally, over 5,000 internal Christian migrants work in sectors like garment factories, shipbreaking yards, and beauty parlors. “Migrants carry heavy burdens,” Sister Zita states. “I walk with them so that no one feels abandoned.” Her compassionate presence offers hope and support to those in need.

Sister Zita’s ministry involves daily visits to crowded neighborhoods and workers’ quarters. She provides emotional support, prays with families, and advocates for those facing harassment or injustice. Many in the community refer to her as “Ma,” a testament to the deep affection they hold for her. Her commitment to the migrants is evident in her proactive response to crises, such as the tragic explosion at the Seema Oxygen Plant in Sitakunda on March 4, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of seven workers. Sister Zita was quick to assist, securing medical treatment and negotiating compensation for the affected families.

Addressing Challenges and Providing Support

Sister Zita’s advocacy extends beyond immediate crises. She actively works to alleviate the financial burdens faced by migrant families, particularly in the aftermath of a tragedy. Many families struggle to afford the costs associated with repatriating a deceased relative’s body, which can range from 10,000 to 30,000 taka. To address this, she mobilizes parish committees to raise funds, ensuring that families can honor their loved ones with dignity.

In addition to her efforts in crisis management, Sister Zita is committed to preventing human trafficking. She has successfully rescued children who were misled into attending a madrasa in Dhaka under false pretenses and has intervened for young women facing abuse in beauty parlors. “Every person deserves safety and dignity,” she emphasizes. Health care is another cornerstone of her mission. Sister Zita collaborates with part-time doctors to provide free consultations and connects patients with affordable diagnostic services. She has also established a small insurance pool to support hospitalized members of the community.

The economic instability exacerbated by global events, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, has further strained the livelihoods of many workers in Chattogram. Daily wages in shipbreaking yards have plummeted to as low as 300 taka, leaving families in precarious situations. Sister Zita regularly counsels these workers and provides school materials for their children, reinforcing the importance of hope and support in their lives.

A Vision for a Safer Future

Sister Zita’s impact is felt deeply by those she serves. One migrant, Papia Nokrek, a beautician who lost her housing due to rising rents, expressed her gratitude: “Sister gave me shelter when I had nowhere to go. She truly is a mother to migrants like me.” Despite operating in a predominantly Muslim nation, Sister Zita has never encountered hostility. She believes her witness is expressed through love and compassion.

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As International Women’s Day approaches on March 8, Sister Zita reflects on the ongoing struggles for women’s rights in Bangladesh. She highlights the urgent need for safety, particularly for women and children who often fear leaving their homes alone. Each year, she organizes programs for migrant women to share their experiences and foster unity.

The harsh realities faced by women in Bangladesh are underscored by alarming statistics from the human rights group Ain o Salish Kendra, which reported numerous incidents of sexual violence in 2025. For Sister Zita, these figures highlight the critical need for advocacy and protection of women’s rights.

Looking back on her decades of service, Sister Zita expresses fulfillment in her mission. “For 20 years, I have walked with migrant workers, listened to their stories, cried with them, and prayed with them,” she reflects. “Their love has blessed my life. I thank God for choosing me for this mission.”