US delegation to Bangladesh highlights need for labour reforms

Led by State Department special representative Kelly M Fay Rodriguez and department of labour deputy undersecretary Thea Lee, the delegation reiterated Washington's commitment to supporting worker empowerment as a cornerstone of inclusive economic growth, gender equity and democratic resilience.

Representatives from USAID, major US brands and global labour organisations accompanied the delegation.

The United States supports Bangladesh in further strengthening workers' rights to form independent trade unions and collectively bargain for better working conditions, the US Embassy in Dhaka said in a press release.

Improving labour rights, especially in the garment sector, and ensuring safe working conditions are shared responsibilities of governments, employers and global buyers, the delegation noted.

The country’s Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus assured the delegation that labour reforms are a top priority for the interim government to attract more foreign buyers, according to domestic media reports.

"We want to make our labour laws at par with global standards. It is my commitment," Yunus reportedly told the delegation.

He said the interim government has appointed a special envoy to reform the country's labour laws and address concerns raised by local and international labour rights groups, the International Labour Organisation and Western nations.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (DS)