Bangladesh Must Protect Labour Rights – Canadian Envoy to CA

Bangladesh Must Protect Labour Rights – Canadian Envoy to CA. Dhaka, Bangladesh – Bangladesh must prioritize ensuring labor rights within its factories to continue benefiting from trade preferences provided by Canada, according to Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Lilly Nicholls. The statement was made during a discussion held at the state guest house Jamuna on August 28.

Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus assured High Commissioner Nicholls that the Bangladeshi government is committed to maintaining labor rights in accordance with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards.

This assurance comes in response to concerns raised by international brands and investors who purchase clothing from Bangladesh. The chief adviser emphasized the importance of aligning with global labor standards to maintain favorable trade relations.

During the discussion, Dr. Yunus addressed the significant economic challenges faced by the Interim government. He pointed out that the government inherited an economy burdened with substantial debt and in disarray due to the previous administration’s mismanagement.

“Our first priority is to fix the economy,” Dr. Yunus stated, highlighting the government’s focus on restoring vital institutions that had been weakened or broken by the former regime. He added that the government is striving to bring “order and clarity in governance” as part of its broader efforts to stabilize the economy.

High Commissioner Nicholls expressed Canada’s readiness to assist Bangladesh’s Interim government, particularly in areas like food security.

She mentioned Canada’s willingness to support Bangladesh by supplying fertilizers and essential commodities, which are crucial for sustaining the nation’s food supply.

Moreover, Nicholls indicated Canada’s interest in backing the UN fact-finding mission to ensure justice and accountability for the atrocities committed during the violence in July and August.

The Canadian envoy also voiced her “deep concern” over the security situation in the Rohingya camps in Bangladesh and the increasing violence affecting the Rohingya population in Myanmar’s Rakhine state.

She noted that Canada has contributed over 600 million dollars to Rohingya humanitarian responses and called for the creation of livelihood opportunities for the displaced population.

In response, Dr. Yunus acknowledged the overcrowded conditions in the Rohingya camps, particularly in Cox’s Bazar, and called for the relocation of some of the population to alleviate the pressure.

He reassured the Canadian envoy that his government is committed to providing hope and support to the Rohingya people.

Dr. Yunus also touched upon the need for electoral reforms, emphasizing that the previous government’s manipulation of the election process had undermined the integrity of the commission.

He promised that significant electoral reforms would be implemented before the country goes to the polls, ensuring a fair and transparent election process.

The chief adviser concluded by reflecting on the students-led revolution, which he described as a historical opportunity for the country to embrace change and move towards a brighter future.

The discussion between Dr. Yunus and High Commissioner Nicholls highlighted the critical intersection of labor rights, economic recovery, and international support in shaping Bangladesh’s future.

As Bangladesh navigates these challenges, the assurance of labor rights and economic stability will play a pivotal role in maintaining the nation’s trade relationships and securing a prosperous future.