Arifur Rahman Tuhin
Garments workers are claiming that, Accord-Alliance initiatives have ensured their security & rights. They are subtly siding with Accord-Alliance & saying that, Accord’s leave may again compromise the protection of their just rights. Many garments workers shared that, ‘workplace-rights’ was a vague subject until Accord implemented it practically. Many were forced to work in risky environments all day & night without proper rest. Former president of BGMEA acknowledged that, Accord has done some good things. But, in the meantime, Accord might be fulfilling some personal agenda. Many industries still have not received certification even after meeting all the security requirements. Bangladesh already has 7 Green-Industries that are ranked in top-10 internationally. Yet, they are claiming Bangladeshi garments sector to be incompetent to continue without third-party supervision. Another former president of BGMEA Salam Murshedi mentioned that, Accord-Alliance came to Bangladesh to inspect the garments sector only after a specific accident. The deal with them, clearly ensured of their leave after their work had been done. If they are satisfied with the progress by Bangladeshi garments sector. There is no need for them to stay any longer. Garments workers are like brothers-sisters to the industries. Garments authorities will take care of them, he assures.
Translated by: Eshan Maitra