Bangladesh to deepen cooperation with ILO on labour rights

Bangladesh has announced plans to intensify its efforts to protect labour rights, improve workplace safety, and implement labour law reforms in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, made the announcement while addressing the 113th International Labour Conference at the ILO headquarters in Geneva on Wednesday.

He highlighted several key steps being taken by the government, including the withdrawal of most politically motivated cases against trade union activists and the restructuring of the Tripartite Consultative Council. He added that amendments to the Labour Act 2006, aimed at aligning with international standards, are currently underway and expected to be finalized soon.

“To strengthen enforcement, 122 new labour inspectors will be appointed,” said Dr. Hossain. “We are also working toward the ratification of ILO Conventions C155, C187, and C190 to enhance workplace safety and protection.”

The labour adviser also expressed concern over recent cuts in development funding, calling for increased technical support from the ILO to sustain momentum in labour sector reforms. He reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to fair trade, equitable migration, and reducing technological disparities as part of its strategy to confront global economic challenges.

Bangladesh welcomed the ILO Governing Body’s decision to recognize Palestine as an observer state. The government called on the international community to protect Palestinian civilians and uphold human rights.

The plenary session was attended by representatives from 187 countries, along with Labour Secretary A.H.M. Shafiquzzaman, members of the Bangladesh Employers’ Federation, representatives from the Tripartite Consultative Council, and senior officials of the Ministry.