Bangladesh: Global unions urge fashion brands to support the garment sector, crucial for the economy and democracy amid political transition
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" Global unions urge brands to stand by Bangladeshi workers", 17 August 2024
Two global union federations — Union Network International and IndustriALL — have urged global fashion brands to remain committed to Bangladesh amidst the country’s political upheaval, emphasising the critical role the garment industry plays in the nation’s economy and democratic future.
In a letter to 200 signatories of the International Accord, a factory safety initiative in Bangladesh, the unions called for continued engagement during this volatile period.
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UNI Global Union and IndustriALL emphasised that this turmoil highlighted the need for stability, which the garment industry can support by keeping workers paid and the economy active.
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The unions highlighted the garment sector as the backbone of the Bangladeshi economy, noting that improvements in worker safety through the International Accord have lifted millions out of poverty.
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The global unions also appealed to the brands to be flexible with their Bangladeshi suppliers, recognising that the political situation might disrupt orders.
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They emphasised the importance of paying workers their regular salaries for July and August and continuing to source from Bangladesh during this challenging time.