Bangladesh strengthens labour reforms, calls for international cooperation

The Bangladeshi government, under the leadership of Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening labour sector reforms through active engagement with all stakeholders. 

Labour and Employment Adviser M Sakhawat Hossain made this announcement on Monday at the 353rd Governing Body session of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva, Switzerland.  

Speaking at the session, Sakhawat highlighted the government's efforts to create an inclusive and sustainable labour environment. He stated that significant progress had been made in addressing longstanding concerns, including the dismissal of politically motivated cases against workers and trade union leaders. He also emphasized the government's initiatives to ensure democratic representation in tripartite labour committees.  

A press release from Bangladesh's Permanent Mission in Geneva stated that this was the second discussion on Bangladesh’s labour reforms under the interim administration, following an earlier report in November.  

Sakhawat explained that discussions are ongoing regarding the amendment of labour laws in Export Processing Zones (EPZs) to align them with national standards. He assured that necessary steps would be taken after thoroughly analyzing differences between existing EPZ regulations and the revised national labour laws.  

Development partners present at the session welcomed Bangladesh’s reform initiatives and expressed their willingness to collaborate in implementing necessary changes. No members of the ILO Governing Body called for an investigation into the allegations against Bangladesh, signaling confidence in the country's labour sector progress.  

Following the discussions, the scheduled review of Bangladesh’s labour sector was moved up to March 2025, instead of the previously planned November 2025.  

Sakhawat expressed gratitude for the international community’s support and referenced the United Nations Secretary-General’s visit as a recognition of Bangladesh’s commitment to reform. He also invited ILO delegations to observe the ongoing improvements firsthand and urged the global community to support the government's efforts in resolving outstanding labour issues efficiently.