Bangladesh has officially assumed the role of coordinator for the Asia-Pacific Group (ASPAG) countries within the International Labour Organization (ILO), taking over from Japan for a one-year term.
The handover took place during a meeting of labor ministers from ASPAG countries held in Geneva, Switzerland. Speaking at the event, Bangladesh’s Labor and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain expressed his gratitude to the ILO and the outgoing coordinator, Japan.
“The Asia-Pacific region contributes 60 percent of the global labor force and 40 percent of the world’s GDP,” he said. “Yet, we are facing significant challenges, including the prevalence of the informal sector, deficits in social protection, and the growing climate crisis.”
Dr. Hossain called for collective support from ASPAG members, emphasizing Bangladesh’s commitment to building a fair and inclusive labor market. He also highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to amend the Labor Act 2006, streamline trade union registrations, and improve the working environment for workers.
“Skill development and employment creation for youth remain top priorities,” he added.
The meeting focused on key regional concerns such as sustainable development, workers’ rights, migrant worker protection, and climate change adaptation.
ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, along with representatives from 14 ASPAG countries, attended the meeting. Also present were AHM Shafiquzzaman, Secretary of the Ministry of Labor and Employment; BEPZA Chairman Major General Abul Kalam Mohammad Ziaur Rahman; and Additional Inspector General of Police Gazi Jasim Uddin.