Address labour market challenges to ensure economic growth, activists urge
Rights activists and experts at an international symposium called for urgent, comprehensive measures to address evolving challenges in the labor market, emphasizing that workers remain the central driving force of the national economy.
Organized by the Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS), the daylong symposium titled "The Future of Work: Decent Work and Social Justice for All" was held on Friday at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital.
Addressing the inaugural session as chief guest, Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Adviser to the Prime Minister on the Ministry of Finance and Planning, stated that transforming the country's fragile economy into a sustainable one requires building a Bangladesh where worker rights are safeguarded within a democratic, humane, and welfare-oriented framework.
Speakers observed that technological innovations, artificial intelligence, automation, climate change, and shifting global supply chains are reshaping employment dynamics at an unprecedented pace. While creating productivity gains, these transitions also introduce skill gaps and new forms of job insecurity. Globally, millions of workers continue to navigate informal employment, inadequate occupational safety, and limited social protection.
Panelists emphasized that Bangladesh's sustained inclusive growth will depend on how effectively labor institutions, enterprises, and the workforce adapt to these ongoing shifts.
Chaired by BILS Chairman Md. Mujibur Rahman Bhuiyan, the event opened with a welcome address by BILS Executive Director Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed.
Special guests at the symposium included MP and Central Coordinator of Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal Adv Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Labour Md. Abdur Rahim, ILO Bangladesh Country Director Max Tunon, Additional Secretary General of the Bangladesh Employers’ Federation Md. Saidul Islam, and Senior Joint Convener of the National Advocacy Alliance for Workers’ Rights Mesbahuddin Ahmed.
Prime Minister's Adviser on Agriculture Affairs Nazrul Islam Khan and Adviser Dr. Mahdi Amin were also present.
