WASHINGTON - The Fair Labor Association (FLA) and the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) recently addressed Dr. Mohammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, through a letter commending the government’s efforts to reform local labour laws in accordance with International Labor Organization (ILO) standards. The letter emphasised the importance of strengthening worker rights to ensure the continued success of Bangladesh's garment, footwear, and travel goods industries, both presently and in the future.

The letter stated: "As you guide Bangladesh through this period of transition, we are eager to collaborate with you to prioritize the protection of workers’ rights alongside the growth of the industry. We fully acknowledge Bangladesh's significant role as the third-largest supplier of garments and an emerging supplier of footwear and travel goods. The collaborative trade partnerships that have fostered economic growth and prosperity can be further strengthened if we continue to uphold our mutual respect for, and support of, workers' rights."

The letter urged the interim government to take three key actions:

1. Immediately release those still under arrest and drop all criminal charges, as well as the threat of such charges, related to the Fall 2023 protests over minimum wage issues;

2. Implement a transparent and consistent annual review of the minimum wage for the garment, footwear, and travel goods industries this year, with all relevant stakeholders—employers, the government, and workers (including independent unions and worker representatives)—participating in the discussions;

3. Resume tripartite discussions on the Bangladesh Labor Act to bring the law into alignment with international labor standards.

The letter was signed by FLA President and CEO Jeff Vockrodt, and AAFA president and CEO Steve Lamar.

The Fair Labor Association (FLA) is dedicated to promoting human rights in the workplace. As an international network comprising companies, universities, and civil society organizations, the FLA works to ensure that millions of workers in factories and farms worldwide are treated fairly and protected from health, safety, and well-being risks.

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) is the national trade organization representing apparel, footwear, and other sewn products companies, along with their suppliers, in the global marketplace. W