Japanese MPs Praise Improvements in Bangladesh’s Labor Rights Situation

A delegation from the Japan Parliamentarians League on the International Labour Organization (ILO) met with Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday, September 3, at the state guesthouse Yamuna in Dhaka. During the courtesy visit, the Japanese parliamentary delegation commended the progress made in improving labor conditions in Bangladesh’s factories. However, Michihiro Ishibashi, Secretary General of Japan’s Constitutional Democratic Party and a member of the House of Councillors, emphasized the need for further advancements in labor rights.

Ishibashi shared insights from the delegation’s visits to various factories, both within and outside Export Processing Zones (EPZs). He expressed optimism after observing positive developments during tours of Japanese companies in Bangladesh. He also voiced hope that Japanese firms would increase investments in infrastructure and other sectors.

Dr. Yunus expressed gratitude for Japan’s long-standing support, describing Japan as a trusted friend and highlighting the multifaceted relationship between the two nations. Addressing labor sector reforms, Dr. Yunus noted that it is a key priority for the interim government. He mentioned that Special Envoy Lutfe Siddiqui has been tasked with ensuring the implementation and timely adoption of all ILO conventions. “We have made it clear that we must be self-critical on labor issues and work on them diligently,” Dr. Yunus stated. He also sought Japan’s assistance for the deep-sea fishing project in Matarbari and urged Japanese companies to increase opportunities for Bangladeshi technical interns and Specified Skilled Workers (SSWs). Dr. Yunus revealed plans to send 100,000 Bangladeshi youths to Japan, who will receive language training, skill development, etiquette lessons, and even some historical education. “This is just the beginning; we aim to send more youths in the future. We believe this is a tremendous opportunity for our young people to showcase their creativity,” he added.

Special Envoy Lutfe Siddiqui and Senior Secretary for SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed were also present during the meeting.

The Japanese delegation included Liberal Democratic Party Vice Secretary General Hanako Jimi, Ryuji Satomi, Constitutional Democratic Party members Kenta Izumi, Maki Ikeda, Mamoru Umetani, independent MP Makiko Dogomi, and Atsushi Oshima, an executive board member of the Democratic Party for the People.