Bangladesh has taken a major step toward improving workers’ rights through a new Bangladesh Labour Law Reform. The updated draft ordinance, approved by the interim government, brings long-awaited changes that focus on equality, safety, and fair representation for all employees.
- Easier Trade Union Formation
Under the Bangladesh Labour Law Reform, the old requirement that 20% of a company’s total workforce must support forming a union has been replaced. Now, small businesses with up to 300 workers can form a trade union with just 20 members.
Medium-sized firms (301–500 workers) will need at least 40 members, while large enterprises with over 3,000 employees will require 400 members to form a union. This flexible approach allows workers in smaller companies to organize more easily and have a voice in decision-making.
- Ban on Gender-Based Wage Discrimination
The new Bangladesh Labour Law Reform bans gender-based wage inequality. Employers can no longer pay different salaries to men and women performing the same duties. This change aims to promote fairness and equal opportunity across workplaces.
- Stronger Protection Against Harassment and Blacklisting
The ordinance also makes sexual harassment and worker blacklisting illegal, protecting employees from retaliation or discrimination. These safeguards ensure a more respectful and transparent work culture.
- Enhanced Maternity and Safety Benefits
The reform significantly improves maternity welfare and workplace safety conditions. These measures reflect Bangladesh’s commitment to international standards and its ratification of multiple ILO conventions focused on occupational health and safety.
- Better Labour Dispute Resolution
Another major feature of the Bangladesh Labour Law Reform is the introduction of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Disagreements between employers and employees must first go through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration before legal proceedings. Independent dispute resolution centers will also be established to handle cases fairly and efficiently.
Global Impact of the Reforms
These reforms are expected to help Bangladesh maintain access to the EU’s Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) trade benefits, especially as the country transitions from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. More importantly, they mark a big leap forward for human rights and workplace fairness in Bangladesh.
About OSHAssociation.org
OSHAssociation.org works globally to promote health, safety, and wellbeing in every workplace. Through training, certification, and advocacy, the organization helps companies create safer environments that protect both workers and employers. The recent Bangladesh Labour Law Reform aligns perfectly with OSHAssociation’s mission to improve occupational safety standards worldwide. Visit www.oshassociation.org
to learn more about how they are shaping a safer and healthier future for all.
OSHAssociation.org is a global organization dedicated to promoting health, safety, and environmental best practices across all industries. It provides internationally recognized training, certifications, and membership programs to help individuals and organizations build safer, healthier, and more productive workplaces. Through global partnerships, awareness campaigns, and professional development initiatives, OSHAssociation empowers safety leaders and companies to reduce risks, prevent accidents, and create a strong culture of safety worldwide.
