Tannery workers have expressed their frustration as the new minimum wage announced by the government has not been implemented even after a year.
Speaking at a press conference at the Daily Star Centre in Dhaka today (25 November), the workers also voiced concerns over worker retrenchment, non-payment of dues, and worker harassment.
They also expressed concern over their right to freedom of association following the government's announcement to bring the leather industry under Bepza.
"The government declared a new minimum wage for tannery workers on 21 November 2024, but industry owners are yet to implement it," said Abul Kalam Azad, president of the Bangladesh Tannery Workers Union, at the press conference.
He added, "Despite lengthy discussions, tripartite meetings, and the ministry's final decision, the owners have taken no effective action."
Azad further alleged that long-serving workers are being labeled as temporary to deny them the declared wages, a clear violation of labour law. Skilled and experienced workers, including machine operators, are reportedly being laid off and replaced with contractor-hired staff, while those dismissed are not receiving their lawful dues.
In a written statement, the association warned that growing frustration and dissatisfaction among workers could lead to unpredictable situations.
Advocate AKM Nasim, country program director of Solidarity Center Bangladesh and member of the Labour Reform Commission, said, "Although the minimum wage gazette has been published, employers' reluctance and the inaction of relevant government authorities are alarming."
He added that bringing the tannery sector under the EPZ could seriously impact workers' freedom of association.
Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, chairman of the Labour Reform Committee, said, "Keeping workers in temporary status, delaying implementation of the declared minimum wage, and creating uncertainty under the guise of review erodes trust and could ultimately affect the entire industry and national economy."
Senior leaders of the Tannery Workers Union attended the event.