Panel Session 03

Empowering the Future: Advancing Safety & Well-being for Garments Workforce in Bangladesh

Monday, Sep 4, 2023 from 03:45 PM – 04:25 PM

About This Session

Bangladesh’s rating for social and labor compliance has improved in recent years, making the country more appealing as an apparel-sourcing destination. While progress has been made in recent years, there are still areas that require attention and improvement.

Compliance with international safety and well-being standards is becoming increasingly important for market access and maintaining a positive reputation in the global marketplace. By actively engaging with global stakeholders, Bangladesh can demonstrate its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the garment workforce. The open dialogue will also promote a broader understanding of international best practices for ensuring safety and well-being in the garment sector.

This session will contribute to the development of more effective strategies and solutions tailored to the specific needs of Bangladesh, strengthening the country’s attractiveness as a sourcing destination and its reputation in the international community.

Speakers

Alexander Kohnstamm

Executive Director,
Fairwear Foundation

Ashish Damle

Country Director,
Oxfam in Bangladesh

Conor Boyle (Moderator)

Head of Program Development, Learning, Donor Liaison and Country Programs, ILO- Better Work Program

Gerwin Leppink

Europe Representative,
WRAP Compliance

Janet Mensink

Executive Director, Social & Labor Convergence Program

Joris Oldenziel

Executive Director,
International Accord

Laura Corrado

Head of Unit (International Affairs) DG Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, European Commission

Peter McAllister​

Executive Director,
Ethical Trading Initiative

Sheikh H M Mustafiz

Founder & Managing Director, Cute Dress Industry Ltd

Alexander Kohnstamm

Executive Director,
Fairwear Foundation

Ashish Damle

Country Director,
Oxfam in Bangladesh

Gerwin Leppink

Europe Representative,
WRAP Compliance

Janet Mensink

Executive Director, Social & Labor Convergence Program

Joris Oldenziel

Executive Director,
International Accord

Peter McAllister​

Executive Director,
Ethical Trading Initiative

Sheikh H M Mustafiz

Founder & Managing Director, Cute Dress Industry Ltd