Centre of Excellence

Leading RMG producers commit to enhance workplace inclusion

Three leading Ready-Made Garment (RMG) companies have signalled their intent to further enhance workforce inclusion for women and people with disabilities

Executives from the Ananta, Bitopi and Shin Shin groups sign the inclusivity policy watched State Minister for Labour and Employment Md Mujibul Haque and industry leaders
Executives of the Ananta, Bitopi and Shin Shin groups signed an Inclusive Business Policy formalizing their respective business policies to promote gender equality and to create better access for persons with disabilities in the RMG sector.
The agreement will see the companies bring their disability inclusion policies in line with the “Rights and Protection of Persons with Disabilities Act 2013”. Meanwhile the groups have also committed to reach gender parity at management levels and ensure equal pay for women employees.

The signing ceremony took place at Lakeshore Hotel in Dhaka on 30 May, 2017. It was followed by a discussion titled “Inclusive Business: Could it lead to higher productivity and better working conditions?”

Speaking at the event, Mr. Md. Mujibul Haque, Honourable State Minister, Ministry of Labour and Employment, said, “An inclusive business policy will provide equal opportunities for all members of society to contribute to the economic growth of Bangladesh. This will especially benefit women and persons with disabilities while also helping companies better engage and utilise staff so that their businesses prosper.”

Country Director of ILO Bangladesh, Mr Srinivas Reddy said, “Inclusion is at the heart of ensuring social justice and an equitable society. It is a positive step to see these high level business leaders take the lead in driving forward workplace inclusivity and I sincerely hope many others can follow their example.”

The event was jointly organised by International Labour Organisation (ILO) and Centre of Excellence for the Bangladesh Apparel Industry (CEBAI). The Centre of Excellence helps meet the need for a skilled labour force in the RMG sector by providing competency-based training in areas where demand from industry is highest. CEBAI is supported by the ILO, the Swedish government, leading Swedish fashion retailer Hennes and Mauritz (H&M), and the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).