Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has called for a strict international legal framework to prevent the laundering of stolen wealth abroad.

In a meeting with Transparency International chief François Valérian, Yunus criticized global financial institutions for their “double standards,” accusing them of knowingly accepting illicit deposits.

He revealed that during years of autocratic rule, at least $16 billion was smuggled out of Bangladesh annually. Despite knowing the sources, banks often treated these as legitimate transfers, he said.

François praised the government’s efforts but stressed the need for stronger international cooperation. Yunus urged TI to play a more proactive role, including establishing an international forum on illicit finance.