The Clean Clothes Campaign strongly condemns the brutal repression of Bangladeshi garment workers peacefully demanding a wage increase to 23,000Tk. We urge the Bangladesh government to uphold workers' fundamental right to peaceful protest. Our hearts go out to those mourning Rasel Hawlader, a garment worker shot during the call for a fair minimum wage in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.

In October 2023, protests for a 23,000Tk minimum wage faced a heavy police response.

We've learned of another tragic loss during the ongoing unrest, though details are pending clarification. The escalating suppression of workers is alarming. Brands sourcing from Bangladesh have failed to support the workers' plea in wage negotiations, perpetuating an undemocratic environment.

Protests that began in Gazipur were in response to a meager proposal of 10,400Tk minimum wage by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), far below trade unions' 23,000Tk demand. Protests are spreading, driven by the need for a family-supporting wage. The killing of Rasel Hawlader is an extreme example of repression.

We call on the Bangladesh government to end violence against workers, avoid politicizing wage protests, and acknowledge them as a response to the unacceptable BGMEA proposal. Brands sourcing from Bangladesh must denounce violence, commit to fair pricing, support worker demands, and protect freedom of association. Solidarity extends to Rasel Hawlader's family and all workers standing up for their rights.