Student protests in Bangladesh, triggered by the reinstatement of a job quota system favouring descendants of 1971 independence war veterans, have severely impacted the manufacturing sector, especially garments. The government’s violent crackdown has resulted in over 450 deaths, heightened insecurity for workers, and widespread harassment, including an internet shutdown.
Following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s departure and the dissolution of Parliament, Dr Mohammad Yunus has been appointed to lead an interim government. IndustriALL Bangladesh Council is demanding wage protection, job security, and improved safety for workers, while urging the new government to address human rights violations and engage in meaningful reforms.
The National Garment Workers Federation (NGWF), which supported the movement from its inception, report significant losses during the unrest, including five members killed, over 50 injured, and more than 100 arrested. NGWF President Amirul Haque Amin and other leaders have called for urgent action from the interim government, demanding immediate justice and compensation for victims of garment worker killings, advanced medical treatment for the injured, unconditional release of arrested workers, wage increases and better labour laws.
