Bangladesh has urged the International Labour Organization (ILO) to expedite the resolution of a complaint filed against the country under Article 26 of the ILO Constitution.
The country argued that recent labour law reforms and strengthened workers' rights demonstrate substantial progress towards international standards.
The request was made by Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury during a meeting with ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo at the Secretariat on Sunday.
Mr Chowdhury said Bangladesh had made substantial progress in aligning its labour regime with international standards, including the enactment of the Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Act, 2026.
He also noted that Bangladesh has become the first country in Asia to ratify all 10 of the ILO's fundamental conventions.
Seeking enhanced technical and institutional cooperation from the ILO, the minister said the government is pressing ahead with a series of reforms, including amendments to the Bangladesh Labour Rules, 2015, the establishment of a tripartite National Social Dialogue Forum, the introduction of an independent alternative dispute resolution mechanism, and a digital case management system.
He said the government is also preparing to introduce a nationwide Employment Injury Scheme (EIS) covering workers in both the formal and informal sectors.
The minister added that a new Department of Employment is being established to expand employment opportunities at home and abroad.
The proposed department will establish employment exchanges at the district and upazila levels while promoting self-employment and technical skills development.
He also reiterated the government's commitment to eliminating irregularities and syndicates in overseas recruitment and facilitating overseas employment, including in Malaysia, through transparent and lower-cost recruitment processes.
According to the ministry, Mr Houngbo welcomed Bangladesh's recent labour reforms, particularly the ratification of all 10 fundamental ILO conventions and the enactment of the new labour law.
He reaffirmed the ILO's support for Bangladesh in promoting freedom of association, strengthening compliance with international labour standards, protecting migrant workers, and creating employment opportunities. He also said the ILO plans to undertake a joint mission to Bangladesh in October to help advance the reform agenda.
Labour and Employment Secretary Md Abdur Rahman Tarafder, ILO Bangladesh Country Director Max Tunon, and senior officials from the ministry and the ILO attended the meeting.
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