Garment Workers Solidarity highlights workers’ demands on interim govt’s anniversary

Bangladesh Garment Workers Solidarity organized a key discussion on Friday at the National Press Club’s Manik Mia Auditorium to evaluate the first year of the interim central executive committee government, focusing on workers’ aspirations and achievements.

The meeting was chaired by Mizanur Rahim Chowdhury, General Secretary of the Solidarity’s Central Committee. Taslima Akhter, Chairperson of the Labour Reform Commission 2024, presented a detailed written statement addressing major concerns affecting garment workers.

Prominent guests included Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, head of the Labor Reform Commission 2024; Dina Siddiqui, professor at New York University; Hasan Ashraf, professor at Jahangirnagar University; theater artist Ritu Sattar; filmmaker Akram Khan; women’s rights leader Aparajita Dev; along with labor leaders and student representatives.

Participants expressed strong support for the Solidarity’s 11-point demands but criticized the government for not fully reflecting workers’ aspirations in its July declaration. They also noted the non-implementation of crucial recommendations from the Labour and Women’s Commission.

Speakers urged the government to accelerate labour law reforms and protect workers’ rights to fair wages, freedom of expression, and unionization. Labour leaders stressed the need for unity among workers’ organizations to effectively advocate for their demands.

Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed emphasized the importance of collective action, expressing concern about the government’s slow progress in executing the commission’s recommendations.

The discussion concluded with a call for a united labour movement to ensure workers’ rights are upheld as an essential component of Bangladesh’s democratic development, highlighting the vital role of media in preserving workers’ history and struggles.