Garment workers in Bangladesh are facing brutal violence and threats as they fight for better pay. The workers are demanding a minimum wage of $168 per month, which is double the current minimum wage. Additionally, they have been met with violent repression from factory owners and security forces.
On October 31, Masuma Akhtar, a 22-year-old seamstress at Dekko Knitwears in Mirpur, experienced a shocking incident when she arrived for her shift. However, instead of a normal workday, she was met with brutality as a group of armed men beat her with wooden sticks. This incident is part of a growing trend of violence in Dhaka, Bangladesh as protests over low wages intensify.
Bangladesh is a major hub for fast fashion production. It churns out millions of tons of clothing each year for global brands attracted by cheap labor. Despite claims by these brands to support a living wage. Moreover, workers are only paid the legal minimum wage, one of the lowest globally at 8,000 taka (£58) since 2018.
Protests erupted in the capital over negotiations for a new minimum wage. Tensions escalated when the government announced an increase to 12,500 taka (£90) from December 1. Workers argue this is far below the 23,000 takas they need to support their families adequately.
In response to the protests, factory owners and police have resorted to threats and violence. Workers at Dekko Knitwears report merciless beatings focusing on hands and arms. Moreover, the violence has left some workers with severe injuries, including broken bones.
Brutal Response
The crackdown on protesters has resulted in three reported deaths, allegedly from police shootings, and numerous injuries. Factory owners have threatened to shut down production and withhold wages through a “no work, no pay” policy, leading to the closure of over 150 factories.
Despite these challenges, the workers remain resilient and determined to fight for fair wages. Naima Islam is a machine operator at Columbia Garments. She emphasizes that they have nothing to lose and won’t back down, even in the face of threats and violence.
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Local trade unions and rights groups condemn the violence and call on the Bangladesh government to ensure workers can exercise their rights without fear. Marks & Spencer and C&A, two brands linked to the affected factories, are investigating the allegations. However, other major fashion brands have expressed support for higher wages but are urged to take concrete actions by paying their suppliers more.
The situation highlights the broader issue of fair wages in the global fashion industry. With workers demanding a decent standard of living and brands being called upon to prioritize workers’ well-being over profit margins.