Geneva: Bangladesh has taken on the role of the new coordinator for the Asia-Pacific Group (ASPAG) countries within the International Labour Organization (ILO). This transition of responsibility from Japan was formalized at a meeting held in Geneva, Switzerland, where labor ministers from ASPAG countries gathered.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, during the meeting, Labor and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain expressed Bangladesh’s commitment to fostering a fair and inclusive labor market. He sought the cooperation of all member countries to address the shared challenges faced by the region.
In his address, Dr. Hossain acknowledged the contributions of the Asia-Pacific region, noting that it accounts for 60 percent of the global labor market and 40 percent of the world’s GDP. Despite these contributions, he highlighted several challenges impacting the region, such as the informal sector, social protection deficits, and the ongoing climate crisis.
The meeting covered a range of issues pertinent to the Asia-Pacific Group, including sustainable development, workers’ rights, the protection of migrant workers, and strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change. Dr. Hossain also underscored the progress Bangladesh has made, emphasizing efforts by the Ministry of Labor and Employment, led by Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, to amend the Labor Act 2006, facilitate trade union registration, and enhance working conditions.
Skill development and youth employment creation were identified as top priorities for Bangladesh. The meeting was attended by ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, representatives from 14 Asia-Pacific countries, and officials such as the Secretary of the Ministry of Labor and Employment AHM Shafiquzzaman, BEPZA Chairman Major General Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman, and Additional Inspector General of Police Gazi Jasim Uddin.