Complying with core ILO Conventions by deadline

It is a welcome relief that the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has allowed Bangladesh a full year, until March next year, to comply with core ILO conventions. These longstanding issues, despite repeated calls for resolution, now have a concrete timeline for fulfilment. The compliance process begins with ratification, followed by ensuring that labour rights are effectively implemented across the country. The recently concluded 353rd Governing Body (GB) session of the ILO extensively deliberated on compliance requirements for the core conventions. These Conventions not only address labour rights in mills and factories but also play a crucial role in sustaining bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. The ILO GB session concluded with a decision to defer the next discussion on Bangladesh's compliance to March 2026, signalling recognition of the positive steps taken so far by the country. However, the ILO urged the Bangladesh government to formulate a time-bound roadmap with measurable outcomes, in consultation with workers, employers, and social partners, to address all outstanding issues.

At the ILO session in mid-June last year, Bangladesh faced criticism for not adhering to three core conventions: Convention 87 on the freedom of association and the right to organise, Convention 98 on the right to organise and collective bargaining, and Convention 81 on labour inspection. During this week's session, the ILO governing body acknowledged Bangladesh's commitments and urged the government to develop a structured action plan. This plan should be formulated with the support of the ILO office and the secretariats of the Workers' and Employers' groups, ensuring full consultation with all partners. While appreciating the measures already undertaken by the government, the ILO Governing Body encouraged further constructive tripartite consultations on labour law reform. These discussions, with technical assistance from the ILO, should prioritise necessary reforms to align national labour laws with international standards. Support from the secretariats of the Employers' and Workers' groups is also expected to facilitate this process.

The significance of these core conventions cannot be overstated, as they are globally recognised as fundamental to protecting workers' interests. Specifically, the right to organise and collective bargaining (Convention 98) and labour inspection (Convention 81) are essential safeguards for workers. Effective implementation of these conventions not only benefits workers but also helps employers and factory owners remain attuned to labour issues, preventing industrial disputes and unrest. Collective bargaining, which allows workers' unions to negotiate employment terms-including wages, perks, working hours etc -provides a structured mechanism for resolving workplace issues. If left unaddressed, these issues could potentially disrupt the smooth functioning of mills and factories. Ensuring compliance with these conventions can foster industrial harmony and improve Bangladesh's standing in international trade negotiations.

With the additional time now available, it is expected that the government will proactively engage all stakeholders to achieve full compliance with the core ILO conventions. By formulating a roadmap and adhering to it along with implementing necessary reforms, Bangladesh can secure a win-win outcome for workers, employers, and the economy, well within the given deadline.