Bangladesh has taken a significant step toward addressing persistent industrial unrest across various sectors by adopting an International Labor Organization (ILO) assisted tripartite declaration aimed at fostering harmonious and equitable workplace relations. The declaration, signed by the Government of Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Employers' Federation (BEF), and the National Coordination Committee for Workers’ Education (NCCWE), outlines a shared vision to enhance industrial relations and resolve disputes early through social dialogue, according to an ILO statement issued on Sunday.
The move comes at a time when the country has been grappling with ongoing industrial disruptions, including strikes and protests in multiple sectors. These disturbances have led to substantial economic losses and operational setbacks for businesses. The government, employers, and workers’ representatives have now pledged to work together to build a system that ensures a stable business environment while upholding workers' rights.
Manuela Tomei, the ILO Assistant Director-General for Governance, Rights and Dialogue, emphasized the importance of sound industrial relations in preventing social unrest. “Such a system is best established on a foundation of respect for international labor standards, including freedom of association, collective bargaining, and safe working conditions,” Tomei said, underscoring the need for a system rooted in social justice.
The declaration highlights the role of inclusive social dialogue in improving employment terms and working conditions. It also advocates for the strengthening of Tripartite Consultative Committees, aligned with international labor standards, to enhance the capacity for dispute prevention and resolution.
AHM Shafiquzzaman, Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reform, noting that the Tripartite Consultation Convention (ILS), 1976 (No. 144) would serve as a guiding framework. He also emphasized the need for greater collaboration with social partners to improve collective bargaining mechanisms.
Ardashir Kabir, President of the Bangladesh Employers' Federation, expressed his commitment to raising awareness about the value of tripartism and supporting the government’s efforts to strengthen social dialogue. Similarly, Badal Khan, Chairperson of the NCCWE, pledged to support measures to improve the functioning of bipartite and tripartite dialogue mechanisms, ensuring workers play an effective role in resolving industrial disputes.
A key feature of the declaration is the call for a modernized dispute resolution framework, including alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, to address conflicts more effectively and prevent them from escalating into major disruptions.
This declaration marks a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s efforts to build a more resilient and equitable industrial relations system. By promoting social justice and better collaboration between workers, employers, and the government, it lays the groundwork for long-term economic prosperity and stability in the country’s industrial sector.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
