Dhaka: Adviser to the Prime Minister on labour and employment, Mahdi Amin, announced that the government is focusing on workers’ welfare, workplace safety, and job creation, highlighting the crucial role of working people in national development. “Improving the living standards of working people is among the government’s top priorities. We are advancing labour-friendly policies, expanding job opportunities and implementing welfare programmes,” Amin stated during a May Day discussion at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Conference Centre in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mahdi Amin, who also advises on education, primary and mass education, and expatriates’ welfare and overseas employment, described workers as key drivers of economic growth and prosperity, with sectors like industry, agriculture, and infrastructure relying heavily on their contributions. He emphasized the government’s responsibility to ensure fair rights, safe working conditions, better living standards, and social dignity for workers.
Amin highlighted that the current government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is committed to labour welfare through policy support, job creation initiatives, and enhanced social protection measures. He noted plans to boost employment, improve workers’ skills, and ensure occupational safety, contributing to sustainable development in the coming years.
Referring to the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, Amin pointed out that discussions on public issues, freedom of expression, and human rights indicate growing public empowerment and democratic progress, which he believes will continue. He also stressed the importance of empowering women, youth, and workers through focused institutional and policy initiatives.
Recalling the vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Amin mentioned that previous BNP-led governments had implemented significant measures for workers, including labour law reforms, wage commissions, minimum wage setting for garment workers, and the establishment of welfare funds. He also noted that Bangladesh has ratified 38 conventions and one protocol of the International Labour Organization, reaffirming its commitment to global labour standards.
Amin stated that steps are underway to ensure timely wage payments, periodic wage reviews, equal pay for men and women, and protection of migrant workers. Initiatives such as expatriate worker cards are being introduced under the labour ministry’s supervision. He expressed optimism that ensuring workers’ safety, dignity, and welfare will help build a prosperous, self-reliant, and humane Bangladesh, with collective efforts aiding in achieving development goals.