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Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has extended greetings and deep respect to the working people of the country on the occasion of ‘International Workers’ Day’ and ‘May Day’. He emphasized ensuring the rights, dignity, and overall welfare of workers.
He conveyed these wishes in a message issued on Thursday afternoon (April 30).
The Prime Minister stated that, like other countries worldwide, ‘International Workers’ Day’ is being observed in Bangladesh with due solemnity. This year, the day is being celebrated with the theme, ‘Healthy Workers, Capable Hands, A New Dawn Will Come’.
He extended heartfelt greetings to all working people, both at home and abroad, saying that his deep respect and best wishes go out to every working individual who contributes to the nation’s development while earning their livelihood.
The Prime Minister respectfully remembered the workers who sacrificed their lives in May 1886 at Chicago’s Haymarket in the United States, during the movement to secure fair rights, including an eight-hour workday. He also paid deep tribute to those who lost their lives or were injured in the global struggle for workers’ rights.
He stated that working people are the main driving force behind a country’s development and progress. Their tireless efforts build industry, agriculture, infrastructure, and the economy. Therefore, the government is committed to improving workers’ living standards, ensuring fair rights, creating a safe working environment, and establishing their social dignity.
He further added that it is possible to bring positive changes in the lives of working people through the adoption of pro-labor policies, increased employment opportunities, and the implementation of welfare initiatives.
The Prime Minister recalled the contributions of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, stating that he believed the two hands of a worker were the main force for the development and prosperity of the state and society. Under his initiative, labor markets were created abroad, particularly in the Middle East, which is now considered one of the pillars of the country’s economy.
He mentioned that the BNP government, at various times, reformed and modernized labor laws, formed wage commissions, set minimum wages for garment workers, provided bonuses, established the Workers’ Welfare Foundation, and made special arrangements for workers’ medical care and education.
The Prime Minister said that, in continuation of the governments of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, protecting workers’ fair rights and ensuring a safe working environment is one of the current government’s top priorities.
He informed that Bangladesh has ratified 39 conventions and one protocol of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the government is committed to maintaining cordial relations with the organization.
He further stated that the government is working to improve the living standards of workers, and timely payment of salaries, bonuses, and other benefits for Eid-ul-Fitr has been ensured. This trend will continue in the future. Additionally, the government is determined to ensure fair wages and equal pay for men and women through regular wage reviews.
The Prime Minister also mentioned the initiative to launch a ‘Probashi Card’ (Expatriate Card) for migrant workers, which will help ensure their economic security.
Finally, he said that if workers’ safety, dignity, and welfare are ensured, it is possible to build a prosperous, self-reliant, and humane Bangladesh. He wished overall success for all programs undertaken on the occasion of Great May Day and National Occupational Health and Safety Day.