Leaders of the National Garment Workers Federation (NGWF) have put forward a set of ten demands aimed at improving the conditions of garment workers in Bangladesh. Key proposals include the establishment of a ration system for all garment workers, job security, and timely wage payments by the first week of each month, in accordance with labor laws.
The demands were put forth during a roundtable discussion titled Social Safety for Garment Workers, held at Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) on Tuesday. Among the additional requests are six-month maternity leave for women workers, paternity leave, the establishment of child care centers at every factory, a redefinition of workers in the labour law, the introduction of a provident fund for garment workers, the assurance of safe working environments, and equal wages and rights for female workers.
NGWF President Amirul Haque Amin, who presided over the event, emphasised the feasibility of their demands, stating, “The garment workers are driving forces of the country’s economic wheels, so these issues should be considered for the sake of the workers.”
Fazlee Shamim Ehsan, Executive President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), underscored the importance of unity and cooperation between company owners and workers to achieve sustainable development in the industry.
Deputy Inspector General of the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE), AKM Salauddin, noted that a provident fund system would greatly benefit workers, while cautioning that workers could face losses if any firm were to shut down.
