AAFA urges BD to address labour welfare issue

The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) called on Bangladesh government to address the issue of workers' welfare and raise minimum wages for garment workers.
Expressing concern over the murder of union leader Shahidul Islam, the AAFA, in a letter to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on July 27, called for holding accountable the persons responsible for his death.
Mr Islam, who was the president of Gazipur district committee of Bangladesh Garment and Industrial Workers Federation, was allegedly beaten to death on June 25 after he visited a factory to secure unpaid wages for its workers.
The AAFA letter, also addressed to Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association president Faruque Hassan, urged immediate action to ensure workers' rights in the country.
AAFA, the US trade association, represents more than 1000 apparel, footwear and other sewn products' companies and their suppliers with over $490 billion in annual US retail sales.
"It is with deep concern that we communicate AAFA's position on certain pressing worker welfare issues that demand immediate action," AAFA president and CEO Stephen Lamar said in the letter.
Shahidul Islam's killing is not only an immeasurable loss for his family and friends but also represents a setback for workers' rights and the overall welfare of workers in Bangladesh, he said.
"Regrettably, this case is the worst in a series of growing attacks against unions, from violent assaults against labour leaders to delays and denials of registration for new unions. Freedom of association is vital for safeguarding workers' rights, ensuring proper working conditions, and promoting a harmonious labour ecosystem," reads the letter.
Lauding the sustainable efforts and practices of local garment industry, Mr Lamar urged the government to continue its constructive dialogue with unions, facilitate new union registration, and condemn any violence, threats or intimidation to foster an environment that respects workers' collective bargaining rights and empowers them as essential stakeholders in the nation's progress.
Terming the minimum wage review 'crucial opportunity' to address existing disparities and to establish fair remuneration for garment workers, the AAFA said they are closely monitoring the current minimum wage review in Bangladesh.
As the wage board committee prepares to make its recommendations, AAFA urges the wage board committee to actively engage true worker representatives, labour unions, and all other relevant stakeholders to promote an atmosphere of open dialogue and inclusivity.
AAFA's brands are optimistic that the final increased minimum wage reached will properly reflect the severe economic challenges that garment workers have faced over the pandemic, the subsequent supply chain crisis, and the current state of the Bangladesh economy, said the AAFA president.
Despite repeated attempts, BGMEA's president could not be reached for comments as of filing of this report at 7:30pm.

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