Dhaka: The Labor Reform Commission has put forth a proposal recommending the review and adjustment of national and sector-based wages every three years. This recommendation is part of a broader initiative to establish dignified wage standards for workers and their families.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the commission, led by labor expert Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, submitted its report to Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Monday. The report emphasizes the necessity of setting criteria for determining a national minimum wage, followed by an official announcement. Additionally, the proposal advocates for the establishment of a permanent wage commission to enhance the wage determination system and implement structural reforms.
The proposal further suggests that national and sector-based wages should undergo evaluation every three years to ensure they meet dignified standards. The report encompasses 25 main recommendations, with a strong focus on ensuring a safe working environment for laborers.
The proposal also outlines the need for specific health and safety plans tailored to various sectors and occupations. It stresses the importance of a re-evaluation process to set compensation standards for workers affected by accidents or negligence, ensuring they receive adequate compensation.
Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, head of the Labor Reform Commission, highlighted the potential for showcasing Bangladesh as a dignified and powerful nation through strengthened labor rights. He stated that labor sector reforms are crucial for building a society free from discrimination. The implementation of the report’s recommendations could transform the living standards of approximately eight crore working individuals.
Ahmed reflected on the aspirations of Bangladesh’s Liberation War and the student-led mass uprising in July-August 2024, emphasizing the goal of establishing a just and discrimination-free society.