The interim government has signed three major conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO) today (22 October), reinforcing its commitment to worker safety and rights.
The signing ceremony was held at the State Guest House, Jamuna, in the presence of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain signed the conventions on behalf of Bangladesh.
The three conventions are Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 (No 155), Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 2006 (No 187) and Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No 190).
Of these, conventions 155 and 187 have been recognised by the ILO as fundamental conventions since 2022.
With the signing of these conventions, Bangladesh has become the only South Asian country to ratify all 10 fundamental ILO conventions, reflecting its dedication to upholding international labour standards and ensuring the safety and welfare of workers across the country.
The chief adviser described the day as "historic for the rights of Bangladesh's working people."
He recalled the 2013 Rana Plaza tragedy, criticising the past government for failing to implement promised reforms, and emphasised that the current government is committed to tangible action.
The ILO Country Director Max Tuñón, congratulated the interim government for signing the conventions, highlighting it as a clear demonstration of Bangladesh's commitment to worker protection.
He also pledged continued support from the ILO to ensure proper implementation of the conventions in collaboration with the government, workers, and law enforcers.
Tunon further urged political parties participating in the upcoming February elections to adopt a labour charter by consensus.