"Advancing Decent Work in Bangladesh" project, a collaborative initiative between Bangladesh and the International Labour Organization (ILO), was launched on Thursday to support the implementation of the government’s labour sector reform.

The project is funded under the Team Europe Initiative on Decent Work in Bangladesh by the European Union, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden. 

The project aims to support the implementation of the government’s labour sector reform commitments with funding of 24.7 million USD over the next four years, according to a press release.

These reforms support good governance, safeguarding of fundamental principles and rights at work, and sustainable and competitive enterprises – all of which are crucial for Bangladesh's smooth transition from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026.

"We are committed to playing our part in supporting social justice, in promoting labour reforms in Bangladesh, and securing decent work for men and women in all industries and sectors of the economy," State Minister for the Ministry of Labour and Employment Md. Nazrul Islam Chowdhury said during the launching programme.

Labour Secretary Md. Mahbub Hossain said that the launching demonstrates Bangladesh’s strong commitment and to further advance reform initiatives to ensure the welfare of our workers and decent workplace for them.

ILO Country Director Tuomo Poutiainen highlighted the importance of effective tripartism to support a smooth transition from LDC status in 2026.

“Fundamental principles and rights at work can only be safeguarded through transparent and consultative processes with workers’ and employers’ organisations”.

Ambassador of the European Union Charles Whiteley commended ongoing initiatives by the Government of Bangladesh.

“We welcome the Government’s commitment to labour reforms, and we are eager to support these efforts in creating new success stories in the crucial few years to come – stories of decent work uplifting individuals, strengthening communities, and driving a sustainable economic growth in Bangladesh.”

Canadian High Commissioner Lilly Nicholls announced that Canada would join the Advancing Decent Work initiative through a complementary project, pending the Government of Bangladesh's approval. 

“Once officiated, this will further amplify the labour sector reforms, while also introducing additional support for the employment injury scheme pilot in the RMG sector.”