The International Labour Organization (ILO) will send a high-level mission to Bangladesh in the coming days to offer its support and expedite action by all parties following the collapse of the Rana Plaza building in Savar, which left at least 380 people dead.
The high-level mission will be led by Gilbert Houngbo, ILO deputy director-general for field operations.
ILO Director-General Guy Ryder said he was writing to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, urging immediate action to prevent a recurrence of the latest in a series of workplace tragedies.
“Horror and regret must translate into urgent firm action,” said Ryder. “Action now can prevent further tragedy. Inaction would mean that the next tragedy is simply a matter of time. The ILO urges the government of Bangladesh and its employers and trade unions to make use of its support and ensure that the Rana Plaza tragedy is the last of its kind.”
The ILO said a comprehensive program must include dealing with unsafe factories – including possible relocation and infrastructure improvement; establishing credible workplace inspections; high-level political commitment to enforcement of laws and regulations; encouragement of social dialogue on safety and health; and the adoption of labor legislation guaranteeing workers the right to organize and participate in collective bargaining, in line with ILO standards.