Bangladesh rights group urges labor rule amendments for safer workplaces

The Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) has called on the government to urgently revise the Bangladesh Labour Rules, 2015. The organization submitted recommendations to the Ministry of Labour and Employment on July 22 and a relevant committee on July 23. These proposals aim to create safer, more dignified, and discrimination-free workplaces, while also improving workers' access to justice.

BLAST's recommendations, developed in line with the Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006, international labor standards, and worker experiences, focus on several key areas. They advocate for mandatory workplace safety training, regular risk assessments, and clear procedures for the statutory compensation fund for workplace injuries and deaths. The organization acknowledged the inclusion of High Court directives in recent Labour Act amendments but pushed for explicit legal recognition of cyber harassment within the definition of sexual harassment.

Furthermore, BLAST emphasized the need for transparent and accountable processes for handling complaints related to workplace violence, harassment, and discrimination. BLAST Director (Law) Md Barkat Ali stated that revising the labor rules is crucial for effectively implementing the amended Labour Act. He also suggested incorporating protections from the Domestic Workers Protection and Welfare Policy, 2015, and establishing paralegal services in labor courts to enhance legal assistance for workers.

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revising the labour rules was essential for the effective implementation of the amended Labour Act.