A staggering 95 percent of workers of Bangladesh are employed in the informal sector.
These workers, often deprived of basic rights and protections, constitute the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy.
Yet, they receive meager wages and lack coverage under collective bargaining agreements.
This inequality is further exacerbated by the country’s minimum wage, which trails behind that of its South Asian counterparts.
Moreover, the declining real wages despite productivity growth paint a bleak picture of economic disparity.
Workers are being left behind, with little recourse for improvement in their living standards.
The absence of safe work environments and the prevalence of employer abuse underscore the urgent need for comprehensive social protection measures.
As automation reshapes the job landscape, it’s imperative that workers are equipped with the necessary skills to adapt.
Social protection, coupled with training and education, can mitigate the risks associated with technological advancements.
Additionally, it can foster a better work-life balance, ensuring the well-being of workers in the face of evolving economic realities.
The suppression of wage-fixing processes and the neglect of labour rights by both employers and the government are unacceptable. This collusion undermines the very foundation of social justice and economic equity.
In light of these revelations, I echo the call for action put forth. Bangladesh must prioritize social protection for its workers as a matter of urgency.
This entails revisiting existing policies to ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to essential benefits for all workers, regardless of their employment status.
It’s time to move beyond rhetoric and prioritize the well-being of those who fuel the nation’s economy.
The government, employers, civil society, and international organizations must collaborate to enact meaningful reforms that uphold the dignity and rights of workers.
Anything less would be a disservice to the hardworking men and women who deserve better from their leaders.
In the pursuit of economic growth and prosperity, let us not forget the fundamental principle that prosperity must be shared by all.
The time for action is now, and the welfare of Bangladesh’s workers cannot wait any longer.
