Ethical Trading Initiative Bangladesh held a joint training for Participation Committee members from management and workers to strengthen social dialogue and improve workplace conditions in the ready-made garment sector.
The session took place on 12 March 2026 in Mawna, Sreepur, Gazipur. It brought together 15 participants, including eight worker representatives and seven management representatives.
The training addressed how Participation Committees function, how agendas are submitted, and how members are selected. It also covered the process of social dialogue between workers and management. The session reviewed how meetings are conducted, including whether bilateral discussions take place and how members take part in discussions.
Participants reviewed meeting records and discussed how to prepare minutes and develop action plans based on outcomes. The session also examined participation of female members and overall committee activities.
ETI Bangladesh led the session as part of its Social Dialogue Workplace Programme to support dialogue between workers and management and uphold labour rights.
At the end of the session, participants agreed to engage in social dialogue to develop an action plan for workplace improvements. The plan includes steps to improve medical facilities, review sick and casual leave processes, and address unauthorised absence. Participants also agreed to hold sessions on workers’ rights and benefits and to involve Participation Committee members in future training activities.
