A delegation from the United States wrapped up a visit to Bangladesh on Tuesday, November 26, after a series of talks focused on supporting the country`s economy, democracy, and labor rights.
The visit was part of an ongoing effort to address key challenges in labor practices in Bangladesh.
The delegation was led by Kelly M. Fe Rodriguez, Special Representative from the US State Department, and Thia Lee, Deputy Undersecretary from the US Department of Labor.
Also joining the visit were representatives from USAID and top officials from major US companies linked to the American Apparel and Footwear Association. Among them were leaders from Gap Inc., PVH Corporation, and VF Corporation, all of whom buy billions of dollars` worth of products from Bangladesh’s garment sector every year.
International labor experts, including Christy Hoffman, General Secretary of UNI Global Union, and Scott Nova, Executive Director of the Worker Rights Consortium, also participated.
The US delegation stressed that Bangladesh needs to tackle its ongoing labor rights issues, which are important not only for the country’s economic growth but also for its democratic stability.
They pointed out that empowering workers and improving labor conditions is key to creating sustainable, fair economic growth that benefits everyone, especially women and marginalized communities.
The US officials emphasized that it is everyone`s responsibility — from governments to business leaders to labor unions — to ensure workers` rights are protected.
In particular, they called for more progress in the garment sector to guarantee safer working conditions, respect for workers’ rights to form unions, and stronger protections for those trying to negotiate better wages and working conditions.
During the visit, the delegation also met with Yunus, the Chief Advisor to Bangladesh`s interim government, who has made labor reforms a top priority.
The US welcomed this commitment and encouraged Bangladesh to continue strengthening workers` rights, especially the right to form independent unions and the ability to negotiate collectively.
In the press release, the US Embassy said that America is committed to working alongside Bangladesh to ensure fair wages, better working conditions, and long-term job stability for workers, particularly in industries like garment manufacturing.
The United States has had a strong partnership with Bangladesh for over 50 years, and the delegation expressed its pride in continuing to support the country’s democratic and economic development.
The US also reaffirmed its commitment to helping Bangladesh protect workers’ rights and strengthen its labor laws to ensure fair treatment for all workers, especially those in the garment sector.
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