Dhaka:Minister of Labour and Employment and of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Ariful Haque Chowdhury emphasized the government's commitment to protecting workers' rights, ensuring safe working conditions, and promoting social dialogue and decent employment.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chowdhury's remarks were made during a meeting with a delegation from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) at the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The minister highlighted that, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership, the government prioritizes decent work and workers' welfare.
Chowdhury noted that the delegation's visit would aid in reviewing the progress of tripartite dialogue among workers, employers, and the government, as well as in implementing the International Labour Organization (ILO) roadmap. He mentioned the amendment of the Bangladesh Labor Act in the first session of the new National Parliament and the recent ratification of ILO Conventions Nos. 155, 187, and 189.
The minister also pointed out that formulating the Bangladesh Labor Rules is now a key goal to effectively implement the amended labor law. Mahdi Amin, Adviser and Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring workers' rights and expressed willingness to collaborate based on the delegation's advice.
The ITUC and IOE delegation praised Bangladesh's efforts in amending labor laws and improving trade union registration, occupational health and safety, and fair wages. They also requested that export processing zones (EPZs) be included under the overall labor law. The delegation comprised ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle, IOE Vice-Chair Kaiser Moyane, ILO Governing Body member Jess Vogt, and ILO Country Director Max Tunon.