DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENT

Labour Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury has reaffirmed the new government’s commitment to labour rights, social justice, human rights, and the rule of law.

Addressing the plenary session of the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva on Monday, the minister outlined key reforms undertaken by the Bangladesh government, including amendments to the Labour Act, the simplification of trade union registration procedures, and the modernisation of the labour inspection system.

He also highlighted initiatives aimed at advancing women’s empowerment, including the implementation of a Gender Roadmap, and the government’s decision to provide free education for women up to the tertiary level.

He called for the democratisation of global labour governance to ensure labour rights for workers worldwide and more inclusive and representative decision-making within the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to international labour standards, Ariful Choudhury noted that the country recently became the first in Asia to ratify all fundamental ILO Conventions.

He further stated that Bangladesh has ratified 39 ILO conventions, the highest number among countries in the region.

The minister highlighted several challenges, including the impact of artificial intelligence, global conflicts, climate change, economic uncertainty, and disruptions to trade and migration, and stressed for stronger international cooperation and a renewed commitment to social justice to address these challenges.