Social dialogue must be institutionalised in RMG: experts

Social dialogue in Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) sector must move beyond pilot initiatives and be institutionalised at all levels, experts said at a programme today.

"Throughout this decade, we have discussed social dialogue, but it is essential to cultivate a culture that extends beyond any single industry," said Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed, executive director of Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies.

Ahmed, also the chairperson of the Bangladesh Labour Reform Commission, made the remark at a multi-stakeholder dialogue event organised by Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) to celebrate one decade of its flagship Social Dialogue Programme, reads a press release.

In his welcome address at the event, Abil Bin Amin, executive director of ETI Bangladesh, said, "This milestone is a testament to the power of collaboration."

"Enough pilot work has been laid down in these ten years. The next decade must be guided by an ambitious vision and concrete steps towards practical action. Social dialogue is not just a business case, it is a fundamental right," he said.

Neeran Ramjuthan, programme manager for labour administration and working conditions at International Labour Organization, Bangladesh, said, "Social dialogue is not merely desirable, it is essential. We need systematic, institutionalised processes, greater inclusivity for women and young people, and a strengthened national framework to address critical issues such as wages."

The event, supported by the Sustainable Textile Initiative: Together for Change (STITCH), brought together more than 100 key actors from the RMG sector to review progress and challenges over the past decade and to chart a collaborative path towards a more sustainable and inclusive RMG industry.

They also explored pathways for its future amid significant national and global transitions, including Bangladesh's expected graduation from LDC status in 2026.

Ismail Hossain, assistant director at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, alongside senior officials from trade bodies, and public and private organisations, also spoke on the occasion.