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Bangladesh should organise its labour market, establish fair wages, ensure employment and social protection, and upskill the unskilled workers for successful reforms in its labour market.
The suggestions came at a recent virtual view-exchange meeting of the Labour Reform Commission with the former Danish premier Poul Nyrup Rasmussen on the issue of labour market reform, according to a statement issued by Danish embassy in Dhaka on Wednesday.
Labour Reform Commission chief Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed and members Ananya Raihan, Syed Nasim Manzur, Prof Jakir Hossain and Razekuzzaman Ratan, Danish envoy Christian Brix Møller and the embassy's sector counsellor on decent work Ole Justesen, among others, also joined the conversation.
Some key recommendations came from the discussion that included organising the labour market, it said.
"A well-organised, transparent and inclusive labour market, supported by government-facilitated social dialogue, is essential for successful reforms," reads the statement.
In addition, an organised workforce, free from legal and bureaucratic barriers, is the key to constructive social dialogue and a stable labour market.
It is essential to establish fair wages, supported by transparent negotiation systems and data as fair wages drive productivity, stability and attract foreign investment.
Other suggestions included establishing sustainable social protection schemes that would require balancing rights with responsibilities, promoting accountability and implementing the measures gradually.
Upskilling and education, especially for unskilled workers, will drive productivity, diversified growth, and employment opportunities as well as re-insertion into the job market, according to the statement.
Mr Rasmussen acknowledges that reform processes inherently take time.
While the aspirations of Bangladeshi society are high at the moment, there is immense pressure on both the commission and the government for swift results, according to him.
To achieve long-term success, the ex-PM says, it is crucial to balance this ambition with clear communication about gradual, phased implementation.
"Effectively managing public expectations is the key. By setting realistic, achievable goals and adopting a step-by-step approach, reforms can be made comprehensive, impactful, and ultimately sustainable."
Denmark is supporting the advancement of decent work in Bangladesh through various initiatives aimed at improving labour rights, working conditions, and social dialogue, according to the statement.
These efforts align with Denmark's commitment to promoting sustainable development and fair labour practices globally, it concludes.