Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh – In a disturbing turn of events, Brother Amirul Haque Amin, General Secretary of the National Shop Employees Federation (NSEF) and President of the National Garments Workers Federation (NGWF), was viciously attacked alongside his supporters during a peaceful demonstration on March 29, 2024. The demonstrators had gathered to demand Eid bonuses for garment and shop workers in Bangladesh when they were met with violence, resulting in injuries to 20 supporters.
The condemnation of the attack was swift and unequivocal, with Mathias Bolton, Head of Commerce at UNI, expressing shock and profound regret. Bolton emphasized solidarity with Brother Amin, other leaders, and protesters, urging the government to swiftly hold the perpetrators accountable. He also called for meaningful dialogue between the government, employers, and unions to address the legitimate demands of workers.
Rajendra Acharya, Regional Secretary of UNI Asia and Pacific, joined in condemning the violence, describing it as reprehensible. Acharya called upon the Bangladeshi government to take immediate action to ensure the safety of union leaders and workers engaging in peaceful protests. He stressed the importance of constructive dialogue to address workers’ demands for fair wages, bonuses, and safe working conditions.
UNI Global Union reaffirmed its unwavering support for the leaders and members of the National Shop Employees Federation and the National Garments Workers Federation, as well as all workers in Bangladesh fighting for justice and dignity in the workplace. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by workers in the country and the importance of ensuring their safety and rights are protected.
As tensions rise following the attack, calls for justice and accountability grow louder. The need for a collaborative effort between the government, employers, and unions to address the concerns of workers has never been more urgent. The international community closely watches the developments in Bangladesh, underscoring the significance of upholding human rights and labor standards for all workers. The road to justice and fair treatment for workers is one that requires unwavering commitment and collective action.