North South University’s (NSU) Center for Migration Studies (CMS) organized a seminar titled “The Future of Work and Workers’ Rights in Bangladesh” on Sunday, 03 May 2026, at the SIPG Conference Room of the University, marking International Workers’ Day 2026, a press release said.
Dr. Selim Reza, Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science and Sociology (PSS), NSU, and Coordinator of CMS, moderated the session and delivered the opening remarks, setting the context for the discussions. This was followed by a welcome address by Professor Sk. Tawfique M. Haque, Director of CMS, NSU, underscored the critical need for inclusive, evidence-based policy frameworks to protect workers’ rights in the face of globalization and increasing labour migration.
The keynote address was delivered by Md. Abul Hossain, a freedom fighter and prominent labour rights activist, who reflected on the historical evolution of labour movements and the structural inequalities embedded within contemporary labour systems. He emphasized that improving wages alone is insufficient, calling instead for comprehensive efforts to enhance workers’ overall quality of life, greater academic engagement on labour economy issues, and broader recognition of domestic and informal labour, including migrant and agricultural workers, within legal and policy frameworks.
A panel discussion featured distinguished experts who examined the issue from complementary perspectives. Dr. Ishrat Zakia Sultana, Associate Professor, PSS, NSU, highlighted the gendered vulnerabilities in labour migration, advocating for accessible digital services (e.g., audio-enabled Smart Probashi), stronger embassy monitoring, and pre-departure training with basic language skills, particularly for women workers.
Dr. Mohammad Jalal Uddin Sikder, Associate Professor, PSS, NSU, highlighted geopolitical and structural challenges affecting migrant workers, noting how conflicts, host country policies, recruitment syndication, corruption, and governance gaps undermine their rights and livelihoods, and stressing the need for regulatory reforms and protection of all workers, including those in the informal sector.
Dr. Md. Rizwanul Islam, Professor of Law and Dean, SHSS, NSU, underscored that workers’ rights require universal legal protection across all contexts, from domestic to international, emphasizing that they extend beyond economic benefits to issues of dignity, legitimacy, and social justice.
The seminar brought together academics, practitioners, trade union leaders, and policy stakeholders to engage in critical discussions on the evolving nature of work, labour rights, and the challenges facing workers in Bangladesh in a rapidly changing socio-economic landscape.
Through this initiative, CMS at SIPG, NSU reaffirmed its commitment to advancing evidence-based policy dialogue on labour rights, migration, and inclusive development in Bangladesh.
