Marking International Labour Day, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed worry about setbacks in the country’s industrial and agricultural progress since August 5, 2024. Hasina blamed the previous interim government led by Muhammad Yunus for the closure of numerous factories, including the garment sector, resulting in 2.1 million job losses within a year.
Sheikh Hasina’s statement, shared by the Awami League on its social media platform, highlighted the disruption in industry and agriculture progress post-August 5, 2024. The closure of factories, especially garment industries, led to a significant rise in unemployment, pushing 3 million people into extreme poverty by September 2025.
International Labour Day, also known as May Day, commemorates the historical struggles and bravery of workers worldwide in fighting for their rights. Hasina, in her address to the people of Bangladesh, emphasized the legacy of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in championing the rights of the oppressed, deprived, and working class, with the Awami League government continuing this mission through various initiatives.
Sheikh Hasina highlighted key initiatives introduced by the Awami League government, such as the Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Act 2018 and National Labour Policy 2012, aimed at enhancing the welfare and living standards of workers. She credited these efforts for positioning Bangladesh as a stable and emerging economy globally, while cautioning against the ongoing economic crisis triggered by the previous interim government.
Warning against the detrimental impact of shutting down industries and undermining farmers, Hasina reaffirmed the Awami League’s commitment to supporting the rights and welfare of working people. She expressed confidence in overcoming the current challenges and steering Bangladesh’s economy back towards development.
