Apparel industry stakeholders are looking into alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as a means of settling labour conflicts in the business without resorting to the drawn-out and expensive traditional litigation process.
ADR’s potential for the RMG industry was emphasised in a recent study by the Solidarity Centre, led by Mostafiz Ahmed, a professor at Jagannath University.
Leaders from the garment industry, legal experts, and worker advocates gathered in Dhaka for an occasion where the research was presented.
The traditional system for resolving labour disputes is slow and expensive, panellists said. As an alternative, experts are exploring ADR. ADR uses a neutral third party to help workers and employers negotiate a quicker, more affordable settlement.
Nonetheless, with regards to the development of ADR, the relevant sector and labour leaders stated that they placed a strong focus on setting a time for dispute settlement in order to avoid the judicial process becoming more drawn out.
MA Awal, district and session judge of Dhaka’s Labour Appellate Tribunal discuss the significance of ADR in expediting dispute resolution processes.
Ruhul Amin, president of the Bangladesh Federation of Workers Solidarity, stressed the need for continuous dialogue and engagement to address systemic issues and promote sustainable practices within the apparel sector. He urged stakeholders to prioritise the well-being of workers and uphold their rights as integral components of a thriving industry.
The conversation delved into the particular ADR mechanisms that would be most helpful in resolving labour conflicts in Bangladesh, as well as the possible obstacles to putting these alternative techniques into practice.
An esteemed panel of legal experts, labour union leaders, and a delegate from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association deliberated on the present obstacles and possible remedies for settling labour conflicts.
Insiders in the field discussed the advantages of using alternative dispute resolution (ADR) procedures as well as the efficacy of the current judicial system.
