Decent work practices key to global competitiveness

Participants in a consultation stressed the commitment to fostering decent work practices across all sectors to create a sustainable and responsible business environment in Bangladesh.
The two-day event, 'Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) along Value Chain and Purchasing Practices', concluded on Thursday.
Organised by the International Labour Organization's Better Work Bangladesh (BWB) with support from the Japanese government, it brought together over 100 representatives from government, trade unions, employers, businesses, development partners and civil-society organisations.
The consultation aimed to identify the necessary elements for building an ecosystem that promotes responsible business conduct and decent work, not only in the garment sector but across all Bangladeshi industries.
"Responsible business conduct is the key to sustainable and inclusive growth," said Tuomo Poutiainen, ILO country director for Bangladesh.
"Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial to facilitate dialogue, build understanding and champion responsible business conduct across industries and supply chains. Lessons learned from Better Work Bangladesh's decade-long experience in the garment sector can be valuable for other industries."
Avijit Chowdhury, executive member of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), emphasised "economic diplomacy that spotlights improved working conditions and elevated work standards."
He added, "Adopting a holistic and positive approach to RBC is key. Bangladesh is currently reviewing its investment policy to integrate decent work principles and promote sustainable investments through technology adoption, skill development and compliance."
Japan strongly supports responsible business conduct, according to Haruta Hiroki, first secretary and head of the economic department at the Japanese Embassy in Bangladesh.
"Ethical and socially responsible business practices are unwavering priorities for us," Mr Hiroki said. "We genuinely care about human rights and our commitment to fostering positive impact through responsible business conduct is sincere."
This emphasis on responsible business conduct resonates in the current global landscape, according to Wasim Zachariah, chairman of the standing committee on SDG Affairs of BGMEA. He mentioned the interconnectedness of markets in the face of geopolitical challenges and economic shifts.
"The ongoing conflicts, such as the one between Ukraine and Russia, coupled with the energy crisis and economic downturn in Europe, highlight the interconnectedness of markets. As we navigate these complexities, it's crucial for businesses to integrate RBC into their supply chains."
Babul Akhtar, senior vice president, IndustriALL Bangladesh Council (IBC), said, it must prioritise creating safe working environments in collaboration with workers to align with international standards and RBC.
"It requires action and genuine commitment that ensures that workers are not only part of the dialogue but are integral to impactful decisions within the RBC approach," he added.

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