Shipyard Workers' Rights in Bangladesh: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

The rights of Bangladeshi shipyard workers are a major topic of this research project, which also examines how such rights are being violated. Workers' health and safety, as well as their ability to exercise their most basic workplace rights, are critical. Bangladesh started shipbreaking in the 1960s, and today, many workers continue to work there despite the significant danger of serious injury or even death. Shipbreakers usually don't have contracts with yard management and don't get paid for overtime or holidays. They also work long hours. Workers are losing their lives and suffering injuries when fires, disasters, and explosions hit from above or are hit by massive steel or iron blocks while they are at work. There are no labor rights, no unions, and no collective bargaining to stand against the violations. The living and working environments exhibit a total lack of standards. This research examined the national and international frameworks used to safeguard shipyard workers' rights in Bangladesh, analyzes the present situation, and lays out a course for future growth per international norms. It also identifies legal loopholes in Bangladesh and offers recommendations for changes the government could make to ensure that all workers have equal access to justice.