Ex-Danish PM Exchanges Views with Bangladesh's Labour Reform Commission

The Bangladesh Interim Government's Labour Reform Commission recently met to exchange views with the former Prime Minister of Denmark, Mr. PoulNyrup Rasmussen, on the issue of labour market reform. 

During the meeting, Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmmed, head of the labour reform commission was present along with other members of the same commission, including Mr Ananya Raihan, Mr. Syed Nasim-Manzur, Prof. Jakir Hossain, and Mr. Razekuzzaman Ratan. Danish Ambassador, H.E. Mr Christian Brix Møller and the Embassy´s sector counsellor on decent work, Mr Ole Justesen also joined the conversation. 

Some key recommendations emerged from this discussion including— 

Organizing the labour market: a well-organized, transparent, and inclusive labour or market, supported by government-facilitated social dialogue, is essential for successful reforms. In addition, an organized workforce, free from legal and bureaucratic barriers, is key to constructive social dialogue and a stable labour market.

Fair wages: it is essential to establish fair wages, supported by transparent negotiation systems and data. Fair wages drive productivity, and stability, and attract foreign investments.

Employment and social protection: establishing sustainable social protection schemes will require balancing rights with responsibilities, promoting accountability, and implementing the measures gradually.

Upskilling and education: upskilling and education, especially for unskilled workers, will drive productivity, diversified growth, and employment opportunities as well as re-insertion into the job market.

Mr Rasmussen acknowledged that reform processes inherently take time, and while the aspirations of the Bangladeshi society are high at the moment, there is immense pressure on both the reform commission and the government for swift results. He added that to achieve long-term success, it is crucial to balance this ambition with clear communication about gradual, phased implementation. 

Effectively managing public expectations is key, and by setting realistic, achievable goals and adopting a step-by-step approach, reforms can be made comprehensive, impactful, and ultimately sustainable.

Denmark's sector cooperation on decent work has been actively taking part in the Labour Reform Commission's consultative sessions. Denmark is supporting the advancement of decent work in Bangladesh through various initiatives aimed at improving labour rights, working conditions, and social dialogue. These efforts align with Denmark's commitment to promoting sustainable development and fair labour practices globally.