Govt Committed to Labour Reforms, Seeks Global Support: Adviser

The government, led by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, is focused on fostering inclusive labour reforms through stakeholder participation to ensure sustainable changes in the sector, according to Labour and Employment Adviser M. Sakhawat Hossain.

Speaking on Monday at the 353rd Governing Body session of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva, Hossain highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to reform its labour sector. His remarks were shared in a press release from Bangladesh's Permanent Mission in Geneva.

Amid ongoing concerns from the ILO regarding Bangladesh’s labour practices, the adviser presented an update on progress since the previous report in November. Hossain emphasized the government's actions to cancel politically motivated cases against workers and trade union leaders, while also ensuring genuine representation in tripartite committees through democratic processes.

"Discussions are ongoing with stakeholders regarding the amendment of labour laws for Export Processing Zones (EPZs)," said Sakhawat. "Following the amendment of Bangladesh's national labour laws, we will assess the differences with EPZ regulations and take necessary steps."

So far, 13 political parties have submitted their views on the reform process. Bangladesh’s development partners have expressed support for the government's initiatives and pledged cooperation in their implementation. Notably, no member of the ILO Governing Body called for an investigation into the allegations against Bangladesh during the session.

In a positive development, the next review of Bangladesh’s labour sector reforms has been moved up to March 2026, ahead of the previously scheduled November 2025 session.

Hossain also welcomed the ILO’s tripartite team and other international delegations to observe the ongoing reforms, reiterating the government's commitment to inclusive change and seeking global support for the swift resolution of the ongoing case.