The Bangladesh Labour Law 2006 introduces critical reforms that affect every employer and worker across the country. This update expands the definition of “worker” to include domestic employees, casual and platform workers, seafarers, and agricultural laborers, while strengthening trade union rights, workplace safety, and social protections. Understanding Bangladesh Labour Law 2006 is essential for businesses to remain compliant and for workers to secure their legal rights.
Labour Law (amendment) ordinance 2025
The Bangladesh Labour Law 2025 introduces comprehensive reforms to protect workers’ rights, streamline employer obligations, and align national regulations with global standards. This update expands coverage to domestic workers, platform workers, casual employees, and more, while strengthening union rights, social protections, and workplace safety
For expert guidance on Bangladesh Labour Law 2025, contact Rashels Law Desk today.
Key Changes Under Bangladesh Labour Law 2006
Trade Union & Collective Bargaining Reforms
| Aspect | Details under Bangladesh Labour Law 2006 | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Threshold for Union Formation | – Minimum 20 workers in small establishments can form a union. – Larger workplaces: 40 workers for 301–500 employees, 100 workers for 501–1,500 employees. | tbsnews.net |
| Collective Bargaining & Representation | – Election of Collective Bargaining Agents (CBA) formalized. – Multiple unions allowed per workplace. – Blacklisting workers for union activity is prohibited. | tbsnews.net |
Expanded Definition of Worker
The 2006 amendment broadens coverage to:
Domestic workers
Casual/daily wage employees
Platform/digital workers
Seafarers
Agricultural workers (farming, aquaculture, livestock)
Minimum Wage & Overtime Rules
Minimum wage regulations now apply to formal and certain informal sectors.
Overtime is calculated at 1.5× hourly wage, and night shifts at 2× wage in some industries.
Employers are obligated to pay wages on time and maintain wage records.
Working Hours & Leave Policies
Standard Working Hours
8 hours/day, 48 hours/week.
Weekly holidays and public holidays are mandatory.
Leave Policies
Annual leave: 14–21 days depending on tenure
Sick leave: 10 days/year
Maternity leave: 120 days
Health, Safety & Workplace Compliance
Employers must ensure industrial safety, fire safety, and hygienic conditions.
Safety committees are mandated in factories with 50+ employees.
Labour inspectors monitor compliance, though enforcement remains under-resourced. (tbsnews.net)
Employee Benefits & Social Protection
Provident fund or national pension scheme for establishments with 100+ permanent workers.
Workplace Accident Compensation Fund to support injured workers and families.
Prohibition of forced labour and blacklisting ensures safer work environments. (bdfeministarchives.org)
Child Labour & Forced Labour Provisions
Minimum age for employment: 14 years.
Hazardous industries: strictly prohibited for workers under 18.
Heavy penalties for violations of child labour or forced labour regulations.
Dispute Resolution & Labour Courts
Disputes are resolved through labour courts or mediation boards.
Employees can file complaints for unfair dismissal, wage disputes, or safety violations.
Collective bargaining and strikes are legally protected under defined procedures. (dhakatribune.com)
How Rashels Law Desk Can Help
RashelsLawDesk provides expert guidance for employers and workers navigating Bangladesh Labour Law 2006:
Union formation and CBA guidance
Employment contract drafting and provident fund compliance
Workplace safety and social protection advisory
Legal representation in labour disputes and compensation claims
FAQ — Bangladesh Labour Law 2006
A: Domestic workers, casual/daily wage employees, platform workers, seafarers, and agricultural workers.
A: Minimum 20 workers in small establishments; thresholds increase with size.
A: 120 days.
A: Yes, for 100+ permanent workers.
A: Through labour courts, mediation boards, and legally protected collective bargaining processes.
Final Thoughts Bangladesh Labour Law 2006
The Bangladesh Labour Law 2006 strengthens worker rights and clarifies employer obligations. Stay informed to ensure compliance and protect your workforce. For expert guidance, contact Rashels Law Desk today.
