Dhaka: The leaders of Nirapon, an organization dedicated to improving worker safety across Bangladesh’s numerous factories, met with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday. Simone Sultana, chair of Nirapon, and Tapan Chowdhury, independent director of the group, led the delegation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, representatives from major Western brands and retailers also attended the meeting. The Chief Adviser reassured the Nirapon officials of the interim government’s commitment to implementing crucial labour reforms to align the country’s labour laws with International Labour Organization standards. He mentioned that several initiatives had already been undertaken, promising noticeable changes in the near future.
Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy of the Chief Adviser, highlighted that the interim government recently signed an 18-point agreement with labour unions and manufacturers. This agreement has contributed to stabilizing the sector and enhancing garment exports.
Simone Sultana expressed gratitude to the Chief Adviser for his efforts to reform the garment industry. She emphasized Nirapon’s collaboration with local partners, BRAC and Amader Kotha, in developing and providing innovative tools to help factories manage safety effectively. Brand representatives also conveyed their approval of the progress in factory safety in Bangladesh.
The meeting was also attended by Lamiya Morshed, senior secretary and principal coordinator on SDG affairs, and Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), among others.