DHAKA - Bangladesh’s workforce continues to face persistent challenges that require urgent reforms to improve living standards and workplace conditions. Recognising this critical need, the Interim Government established the Labour Reform Commission in November 2024 to address fundamental issues related to workers' rights, safety, and fair wages.

This initiative follows sustained advocacy by labour rights activists, trade unions, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), all highlighting the necessity for substantial legislative and practical changes.

In support of this cause, the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) recently presented detailed recommendations aimed at implementing meaningful reforms that protect workers and promote fair labour practices across all industries.

A media briefing titled 'Reforms in Workers’ Livelihood, Workplace Safety, and Rights Issues: An Agenda for the Interim Government' was held on 12 January 2025. Jointly organised by the CPD and Christian Aid, the event brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders.

During the session, Dr. Khondaker Golam Moazzem, research director at CPD, noted that Bangladesh has struggled to ensure fair wages for its workforce. The Minimum Wage Board (MWB) currently covers only 42 industries, with no significant expansion in recent years despite discussions of adding four more sectors. He stressed that these delays underline the urgent need for reforms.

In his keynote presentation, Mr. Tamim Ahmed, senior research associate at CPD, outlined a comprehensive reform agenda. He said that many sectors operate with outdated and alarmingly low minimum wages, leaving informal workers outside the scope of regulations. The recommendations focused on expanding wage coverage to all industries, introducing a national minimum wage, and enforcing timely payments with penalties for delays.

The issue of occupational safety was also addressed. While the Readymade Garment (RMG) sector has made progress, many other industries remain hazardous, with frequent but underreported accidents and weak enforcement of safety protocols. The CPD proposed appointing mandatory safety officers at workplaces, conducting unannounced inspections, and establishing specialised medical facilities for high-risk industries such as tanneries and shipbreaking.

Restrictions on the right to unionise remain a significant concern, particularly in Export Processing Zones (EPZs), where trade unions are prohibited. The CPD called for the unification of labour laws to ensure comprehensive coverage, enhanced protections for union activists, and a reduction in the approval threshold for strikes to empower workers.

Social protection emerged as another crucial gap, as informal workers lack access to health insurance, pensions, and unemployment benefits. The CPD recommended ratifying international conventions, expanding existing social protection schemes, and introducing maternity and disability insurance to safeguard vulnerable workers.

Child labour and forced labour continue to be pressing issues. Current penalties for violations are insufficient, and victims of forced labour often lack access to legal protections and shelters. The CPD called for stronger enforcement mechanisms, harsher penalties for offenders, and the establishment of dedicated support systems for victims.

Gender equality was highlighted as an ongoing concern. Women face systemic challenges in workplace safety, access to childcare, and leadership opportunities. To address this, the CPD recommended implementing equal pay legislation, anti-discrimination laws, and mandatory daycare facilities at workplaces.

The discussion also featured perspectives from industry and civil society representatives. Mr. Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, chairman of the Workers’ Rights Commission, emphasised that ensuring the dignity and safety of every worker is central to their mission and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing reforms that address workforce needs and rights. Mr. Kamran T. Rahman, president of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), highlighted the importance of collaboration between industry and government to foster economic growth that respects and upholds labour rights.

Taslima Akter Lima, president of Bangladesh Garments Sramik Sanghati, stressed the need for immediate action, stating that the industry must translate its promises into reality to ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for all garment workers. Mr. Farooq Ahmed, secretary-general and CEO of the Bangladesh Employers’ Federation, highlighted that improving labour conditions is a pivotal step toward enhancing the country’s global competitiveness and called for swift implementation of meaningful reforms.

The session concluded with an open-floor Q&A, during which journalists from print and electronic media posed questions to the panellists, seeking further insights and sharing their perspectives on labour reform priorities.