08 Nov 2023 | 07:11 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Garment workers' strike and related protest campaign likely to continue in Dhaka Division through late-November /update 1
Garment workers' strike, protests likely to persist across Dhaka Division, Bangladesh, through late-November. Clashes, disruptions reported.
Unionized garment workers will likely continue their indefinite strike and protest campaign in Dhaka Divison through at least late November to demand higher wages. Thousands of strike participants have engaged in the work stoppage since Oct. 23, causing over 600 factories across Dhaka to suspend operations. While the government has increased the minimum monthly pay for workers since Nov. 7, several unions have rejected the offer, citing it as inadequate. Protests have occurred outside garment factories, government buildings, transportation depots, and thoroughfares across Dhaka Division, including Ashulia, Dhaka, Gazipur, Narayanganj, and Savar. Activists have also committed arson and vandalism, as well as blocked roadways, such as the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway, in the Gazipur and Mirpur areas. Isolated clashes have erupted between police and activists, with officials resorting to force, including tear gas, on some occasions.
Related demonstrations will almost certainly occur over the coming weeks. Organizers have called for a rally at the National Press Club in Dhaka from 11:00 Nov. 10. Other potential gathering sites include Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) offices, the Ministry of Labor and Employment, garment factories, transportation hubs, police stations, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Well-attended gatherings will probably attract thousands of participants. Organizers may suspend or temporarily delay the labor action if employers address their demands.
Authorities are maintaining an increased security presence in several industrial areas, particularly in the Abdullahpur, Ashulia, Gazipur, Mirpur, Rampura, Savar, and Tongi areas. Officials may implement enhanced security measures, including temporary public movement restrictions, depending on the severity of the perceived threat. Additional clashes between police and activists and isolated security incidents cannot be ruled out. Further localized transport and business disruptions are likely.
Avoid all demonstrations due to possible violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
