Bangladesh’s garment workers clash with police over higher wages

In Mirpur, Dhaka, thousands of Bangladesh garment workers took to the streets on Monday, blocking a major highway and clashing with police in a protest demanding a substantial increase in the minimum wage. The demonstrators, who hail from the industrial hub of Gazipur and other regions, aim to double the current monthly wage of around ৳13,000 (US$241) to ৳30,000 (US$241).

Despite the government's announcement on Sunday of a wage board to review the minimum wage in the garment industry, which contributes significantly to Bangladesh's export earnings, labor leaders argue that the protests target more than just wage negotiations. These grievances stem from inflation and rising costs of living. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman convened an emergency cabinet meeting to discuss the matter, instructing the government to uphold workers' rights and ensure production and exports continue without disruption.

However, tensions remain, with some labor leaders reportedly going into hiding due to the unrest. Industry insiders reveal that workers from approximately 529 factories across Dhaka and surrounding areas have halted their work in response to the ongoing protests.