The action plan will include a follow-up mechanism to measure in 6 months time, progress made in the implementation of the measures announced today.

Safety must be given the highest consideration by the Government, employers and workers in Bangladesh. Those responsible for the tragic events that have occurred in Bangladesh over the past 6 months shall be held accountable. Unless lawful actions are taken at the earliest more lives may be lost in preventable industrial accidents.

The tripartite partners therefore resolved to increase their efforts to provide every single worker in Bangladesh with a safe work place, and to ensure workers’ rights and representation, regardless of whether that work place may be a garment factory, a retail shop or a bank.. The ILO expresses its appreciation for the resolve of the tripartite partners.

The tripartite partners and the ILO acknowledge that the challenges are daunting but believe that, if international buyers and brands take increased responsibility for improving working conditions and safety and health and with the active support of development partners and donors, safety can and must be improved in all workplaces throughout Bangladesh.

International Labour Organization