Beginning in early 2008, unprecedented numbers of Bangladeshi asylum seekers entered France in search of humanitarian protection and improved economic prospects. Over subsequent years, Bangladesh has become one of the most important sending countries for asylum seekers to France according to the OFPRA (Office Français de Protection des Réfugiés et Apatrides) 2012.

In recent years, the influx of Bangladeshi men seeking refuge has been particularly notable in Paris, France. These brave individuals have fled their homeland, traversed borders, and chosen to settle in the bustling city. Despite their status as asylum seekers, they have found a means of survival by selling exotic fruits and vegetables outside of Metro stations. Operating anonymously and at a low cost, these determined individuals face the daily challenges and legal vulnerability that come with being undocumented migrants. 
While some of these asylum seekers manage to earn money most days, it is not without its hardships. There are those who struggle to sell anything, barely making a few euros in an entire month. Their tough circumstances are compounded by the fact that they are living without their families, a sacrifice they have made in pursuit of a better future. However, these resilient men have found a way to make ends meet by sharing expenses and sending whatever savings they can back to their loved ones in Bangladesh.
Remarkably, the French government has shown some tolerance towards these asylum seekers. They are allowed to work under a special permit called "recerpisse," which grants them the opportunity to earn a living. While there are occasional setbacks, such as having their stalls taken away or having to pay fines, these individuals consider themselves fortunate compared to asylum seekers in other European countries who face less accommodating policies.
In this dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, the story of these Bangladeshi asylum seekers in France is one of perseverance and resilience. Their determination to carve out a better life for themselves and their families serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the lengths people are willing to go to seek a brighter future, even in the face of adversity.