Hundreds of garment factories in Bangladesh have shuttered their doors in the wake of escalating protests by workers demanding higher wages. Over the weekend, demonstrations erupted in Dhaka, with workers blocking roads, vandalizing factories, and setting vehicles on fire. Police responded with tear gas, leading to clashes and the detention of several dozen protesters.
Workers are pushing for a minimum monthly wage of 30,000 taka ($242; £180), more than doubling the current average of 13,000 taka ($105; £78). For these workers, the rising cost of living is a pressing issue. They are among the lowest-paid in the global garment sector. Bangladesh's textile industry is a cornerstone of its economy, employing around four million people and generating nearly $40 billion annually. This accounts for about 10% of the nation's GDP. Major international brands like H&M, Primark, and Uniqlo depend on this industry.
The government announced a wage review board, and an emergency meeting was held to address the unrest. But the protests persisted on Monday in Dhaka and surrounding industrial areas, including Ashulia, Gazipur, and Narayanganj. Around 670 factories suspended operations on Monday, with many remaining closed on Tuesday.
Authorities have accused the Awami League of taking advantage of the protest movement to instigate violence, though they did not provide any evidence of this. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed warned of severe consequences for those attempting to destabilize the country under the guise of labor protests.
Representatives of the workers are calling for calm. Babul Akhter, a member of the wage board, urged workers to return to their jobs, promising to advocate for fair wages.
The unrest poses a significant threat to Bangladesh's garment industry, which stands as the world’s second-largest exporter after China. Industry insiders worry that prolonged disruptions could impact production schedules and strain relationships with international buyers.
Protesters, however, are firm in their demands. One female worker stressed the need for the government to address not only wages but also the increasing costs of essential goods and housing. "We want the government to accept our demands and increase our wages, " she said. "They need to instruct landlords and homeowners not to raise rent and ensure that the prices of essential commodities remain affordable."
Mamun, a 28-year-old factory worker, echoed these concerns, pointing to the rising costs of food, cooking gas, and electricity. "The government must either bring down the prices of essential commodities or raise our wages, " he told AFP.
