Labourers did not get their fair share in country's dev: Debapriya

 The working class has not received its fair share of entitlements in accordance with Bangladesh's development over the past decade, Debapriya Bhattacharya, head of the committee responsible for preparing a white paper on the state of the country's economy, said today (30 September).

"  While assessing the fair share for workers, labour leaders stated that the wages provided to workers in Bangladesh are inadequate," Debapriya told reporters after a meeting, held at the Nazia-Salma conference room at the Planning Commission, with labour leaders as part of the white paper formulation. 

 "Moreover, the social protections implemented for workers are insufficient. For instance, accommodation facilities and maternity leave are not adequate," the economist added 

He also noted that necessary measures, such as establishing a future fund for labour welfare, have not been properly implemented. Additionally, while trade unions have the right to advocate for workers' demands in Bangladesh, this is not being done effectively.

"No adequate initiatives have been taken to reopen industries and factories in Bangladesh that have been closed. In this regard, there is a violation of government policy, and vested interests are influencing the situation," he lamented.

Debapriya further stated that a new economy is emerging in Bangladesh through artificial intelligence and information technology, yet there are challenges in enforcing workers' rights within this new landscape.

He emphasised that Bangladesh's labour laws are not aligned with international standards, resulting in violations of workers' rights. The labour leaders sought to explain why they have not received their fair share despite the country's development.

Debapriya, who is also a public policy analyst, stated that the white paper committee consulted young entrepreneurs in the country during its last meeting. These young business leaders shared their expectations and challenges.

"The first step we took was to engage with representatives from government agencies to clarify any doubts about the data.  We are now in discussions with social groups," he said.

"We have already talked with business entrepreneurs and labour representatives, and we will also be engaging with foreign investors and development partners. In addition to Dhaka, we plan to hold town hall meetings in Chattogram, Rajshahi and Sylhet. We will prepare a draft report based on everyone's feedback," he added.

On 28 August, the government formed a 12-member committee headed by Debapriya Bhattacharya to prepare a comprehensive "white paper" on the state of the country's economy.

The "white paper" will outline strategic recommendations aimed at stabilising the economy, achieving sustainable development goals, and addressing the challenges faced by Bangladesh as it transitions from its least developed country status to middle income country status.