The Help Line – 0800 44 55 000 – will be run by the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE) and has been established with the support of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and Royal Norwegian Government.

Calls received by the Help Line will be logged and forwarded to either DIFE, the Fire Service and Civil Defence Department or the Directorate of Labour to deal with. The caller will then be contacted with a response.

In the initial phase the Help line will target ready-made garment workers in the Ashulia area. Should it prove successful it will be promoted to workers nationwide.

Speaking at the launch Mr. Srinivas B. Reddy, Country Director ILO said, “Over the last two years, unprecedented efforts have been made to enhance workplace safety and improve workers’ rights in the ready-made garment sector in Bangladesh.

“By providing workers with the chance to air grievances this Help Line gives a voice to the voiceless. It will also play an important role in facilitating better work place relations by helping address grievances that may otherwise escalate into mass protests or court cases.”

State Minister for the Ministry of Labour and Employment Mr. Mujibul Haque presided over the ceremony. Also taking part were Special Guest and Secretary Mr. Mikail Shipar, Inspector General of the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments Mr. Syed Ahmmed, Director of Labour Mr. S. M. Ashrafuzzaman as well as representatives from employers and workers organizations.