Impact of COVID-19 on Ready-made Garments Workers in Bangladesh

Abstract

COVID-19 is an overwhelming crisis that has touched almost every sector. As the Ready-made Garments (RMG) sector is closely integrated with the global supply chain, it is important to understand the implications of COVID-19 on RMG workers as they are the most vulnerable in this situation. This article aims to explore the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic on RMG workers in Bangladesh. Particularly, it investigates the impact on health, safety and security, employment, livelihood, and social relations of the workers. The research also explores the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in this regard. The study followed qualitative methodology. The primary data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussion, and key informant interviews. The findings revealed that COVID-19 faced detrimental consequences in terms of health, safety and security, and social relations. The workers also faced a livelihood crisis as their earnings were curtailed.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Rights of Informal Workers in Bangladesh

“…It implicated their livelihood imputes, such as the inability to manage daily expenses, foodstuffs, house rent, etc. (Sharif, 2021). According to a study by SANEM, a 25% negative stun on households' expenditure led to a rise in the poverty rate in Bangladesh from 20.5% in 2019 to around 41% in 2020 (Raihan, 2020).…”

“…So, I decided to start work as a domestic worker till then." (Personal correspondence, 12 July 2021) The study by Sharif (2021) revealed the job security perspectives of Ready-made garment workers in Bangladesh. As a result of global supply chain interruption during the COVID-19 situation, the RMG sector in Bangladesh was disrupted, resulting in the termination of casual or permanent workers.…”