Advancing Decent Work in Bangladesh - Canada

There are several decent work challenges to be addressed in relation to legislative frameworks, labour inspection, and freedom of association (FoA), collective bargaining (CB), and social protection rights. Strengthening national and sector tripartite institutions is also key for efficient social dialogue. On the enterprise level too, work is needed as regards trade union density and workers' voice and representation, labour market mobility for women and gender equality in education and pay. The Covid-19 pandemic exposed gaps in social protection that needs to be addressed to limit poverty vulnerabilities. Effectively engaging non-traditional partners like international Brands, like-minded development partners and international financial institutions, can help create desired impact in shorter period of time. Addressing these issues has positive implications for Bangladesh's global competitiveness, including for international trade and investments. It certainly helps in the efforts to maintain preferential market access to export destinations, including the EU, which accounts for 58 percent of Bangladesh's total exports. It also positively impacts job creation and export diversification, essential to Bangladesh as one of the world's most densely populated countries with 94% of its population below the age of 65.

Project symbol

BGD/24/01/CAN

Admin unit

CO-Dhaka

Start date

14/03/2024

End date

31/12/2028

Total allocation

3453194

Total expenditure

Status

Active

1710616

Development Partners

Canada, Global Affairs Canada

Country/Countries

Bangladesh

Outcomes

Outcome 7: Universal social protection
Outcome 4: Sustainable enterprises for inclusive growth and decent work
Outcome 5: Gender equality and equality of treatment and opportunities for all
Outcome 2: Strong, representative and influential tripartite constituents and effective social dialogue