TRADE UNION 1

TRADE UNION Table of content

S.L NO

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CONTENTS

01.

Definition of Trade Union

03-05

02.

Objectives of Trade Union

05-09

03.

Types of Trade Union

09-10

04.

Functions of Trade Union

10-12

05.

Important of Trade Union

13-15

06.

Reasons for joining Trade Union

15-17

07.

Nature of Trade Union in Bangladesh

18-21

08.

Weakness of Trade Union in Bangladesh

22-25

09.

Suggestions for overcoming the weakness of Trade Union

25-26

10.

Conclusion

26-27

11.

Reference and Appendix

27-29

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TRADE UNION:
A trade union , labor union or labor union is an organization of workers who have banded together to achieve common goals such as protecting the integrity of its trade, achieving higher pay, increasing the number of employees an employer hires, and better working conditions. The trade union, through its leadership, bargains with the employer on behalf of union members (rank and file members) and negotiates labor contracts (collective bargaining) with employers. The most common purpose of these associations or unions is "maintaining or improving the conditions of their employment". This may include the negotiation of wages, work rules, complaint procedures, rules governing hiring, firing and promotion of workers, benefits, workplace safety and policies. The agreements negotiated by a union are binding on the rank and file members and the employer and in some cases on other non-member workers. Trade unions traditionally have a constitution which details the governance of their bargaining unit and also have governance at various levels of government depending on the industry that binds them legally to their negotiations and functioning. Originating in Europe, trade unions became popular in many countries during the Industrial Revolution, when the lack of skill necessary to perform most jobs shifted employment bargaining power almost completely to the employers' side, causing many workers to be mistreated and underpaid. Trade unions may be composed of individual workers, professionals, past workers, students, apprentices and/or the unemployed. A trade union or labor union is an organization of workers who have banded together to achieve common goals in key areas and working conditions. Trade Unions in view of Bangladesh Labor Act, 2006 SEC. - 175. Special definition of worker Unless there is anything repugnant in the subject of context worker in this chapter connotes a worker defined in section 2 (65), and for the purpose of any proceeding under this chapter. According to the Bangladesh Labor Act, 2006, Workers/employers, without distinction whatsoever shall have the right to form trade union for the purpose of regulating the relations between workers and employers or workers and workers or employers and employers and, subject to the constitution of the union concerned, to join trade union of their own choosing.

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[Sec: 176, The Bangladesh Labor Act, 2006 / Sec: 3, IRO, 1969]. The trade union, through its leadership, bargains with the employer on behalf of union members and negotiates with employers. This may include the negotiation of wages, work rules, complaint procedures, rules governing hiring, firing and promotion of workers, benefits, workplace safety and policies. The agreements negotiated by the union leaders are binding on the rank and file members and the employer and in some cases on other nonmember workers. These organizations may comprise individual. Examples of some trade union in Bangladesh 1. Bangladesh Free Trade Union Congress 2. Bangladesh Ganotantrik Sramik Federation 3. Bangladesh Jatio Sramik League 4. Bangladesh Jatiyo Sramik Jote 5. Bangladesh Jatyatabadi Sramik Dal 6. Bangladesh Labor Federation 7. Bangladesh Mukto Sramik Federation 8. Bangladesh Sanjukta Sramik Federation 9. Bangladesh Trade Union Kendra 10. Jatio Sramik Federation 11. Jatyo Sramik League 12. Samajtantrik Sramik Front. Over the last three hundred years, trade unions have developed into a number of forms. Aside from collective bargaining, activities vary, but may include: Provision of benefits to members: Early trade unions, like Friendly Societies, often provided a range of benefits to insure members against unemployment, ill health, old age and funeral expenses. In many developed countries, these functions have been assumed by the state; however, the provision of professional training, legal advice and representation for members is still an important benefit of trade union membership.

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Protection of workers: Unions prevent exploitation of workers; increase their wages thereby reducing inequality. Industrial action: trade unions may enforce strikes or resistance to lockouts in furtherance of particular goals. Political activity: trade unions may promote legislation favorable to the interests of their members or workers as a whole. To this end they may pursue campaigns, undertake lobbying, or financially support individual candidates or parties (such as the Labor Party in Britain) for public office. In some countries (e.g., the Nordic countries and the Philippines), trade unions may be invited to participate in government hearings about educational or other labor market reforms.

A Short History of trade union:

The origins of unions' existence can be traced from the eighteenth century, where the rapid expansion of industrial society drew women, children, rural workers, and immigrants to the work force in larger numbers and in new roles. This pool of unskilled and semi-skilled labor spontaneously organized in fits and starts throughout its beginnings, and would later be an important arena for the development of trade unions. Trade unions as such were endorsed by the Catholic Church towards the end of the 19th Century. Pope Leo XIII in his 'Magna Carta': Rerum Novarum, spoke against the atrocities workers faced and demanded that workers should be granted certain rights and safety regulations. So Trade Union is an organization of workers who have banded together to achieve common goals such as protecting the integrity of its trade, achieving higher pay, increasing the number of employees an employer hires, and better working conditions.-An organized association of workers in a trade, group of trades, or profession, formed to protect and further their rights and interests.-A group of employees in a particular sector, whose aim is to negotiate with employees overpay, job security, working hours, etc. using the collective power of the members.

Objectives of Trade Union:

The most common, but by no means only purpose of trade unions are maintaining or improving the conditions of employment. Over the last three hundred years, many trade unions have developed into a number of forms, influenced by differing political and economic regimes. The immediate objectives and activities of trade unions include protection and promotion of the interests of their members. Regulating the relations between workers and employers or workers and workers or employers and

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employers is another objective of trade unions. The failure of an individual worker to seek solutions to problems, while discharging his duties, personal as well as organizational, led worker to form a formal group which is identified at present as trade union. Thus, the main objective of any trade union is to protect the interest of worker/employees in the organization. Thus a trade union is meant to conduct negotiation on behalf of individual workers in respect of several items. However, trade unions specifically concentrate their attention to achieve the following objectives:

Negotiation:
Negotiation is where union representatives, discuss with management, the issues which affect people working in an organization. There may be a difference of opinion between management and union members. Trade unions negotiate with the employers to find out a solution to these differences. Pay, working hours, holidays and changes to working practices are the sorts of issues that are negotiated. In many workplaces there is a formal agreement between the union and the company which states that the union has the right to negotiate with the employer. In these organizations, unions are said to be recognized for collective bargaining purposes.

Representation:
Trade unions represent individual workers when they have a problem at work. If an employee feels he is being unfairly treated, he can ask the union representative to help sort out the difficulty with the manager or employer. Unions also offer their members legal representation. Normally this is to help people get financial compensation for work-related injuries or to assist people who have to take their employer to court.

Voice in decisions affecting workers:

The economic security of employees is determined not only by the level of wages and duration of their employment, but also by the managements personal policies which include selection of employees for lay offs, retrenchment, promotion and transfer. These policies directly affect workers. The evaluation criteria for such decisions may not be fair. So, the intervention of unions in such decision making is a way through which workers can have their say in the decision making to safeguard their interests.

Member Service:
During the last few years, trade unions have increased the range of services they offer their

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members. These include:

- Education and training

Most unions run training courses for their members on employment rights, health and safety and other issues. Some unions also help members who have left school with little education by offering courses on basic skills and courses leading to professional qualifications. -Legal assistance: As well as offering legal advice on employment issues, some unions give help with personal matters, like housing, wills and debt. -Financial discounts: People can get discounts on mortgages, insurance and loans from unions.

Wages and salaries:

The subject which drew the attention of trade union is wages and salaries. Of course, this item may be related to policy matters .However, difference may arise in the process of their implementation. In the case of unrecognized sector the trade union plays a crucial role in bargaining the pay role.

Working conditions:
Trade union with a view to safeguard the health of worker s demand the management to provide all the basic facilities such as ,lighting and ventilation, sanitation, rest rooms, safety equipments while discharging hazardous duties, drinking water, refreshment, minimum working hours, leave and rest, holiday with pay, job satisfaction, social security benefits and other welfare measure.

Discipline:
Trade union not only conduct negotiation in respect of the items with which there working conditions may be improved but also protect the worker from the clutches of management whenever worker become the victims of managements unilateral acts and disciplinary policies. This victimization may take the form of penal transfer, suspensions, dismissals, etc. In such a situation the separated worker who is lift in a helpless condition may approach the trade union. Ultimately the problem may be brought to the notice of management by the trade union and it explains about the injustice meted out to an individual worker and flights the management for justice. Thus, the victimized worker may be protected by the trade union.

TRADE UNION Personnel policies :

Trade union may fight against improper implementation of personnel policies in respect of recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, training, etc

Welfare:
As stated earlier, trade unions are meant for the welfare of workers. Trade union work as a guide, consulting authority and cooperates in overcoming the personnel problems of workers. It may bring to the notice of management, through collective bargaining meetings, the difficulties of workers in respect of sanitation, hospital, quarters, school and colleges for their childrens cultural and social problems.

Employee-employer relations:
A harmonious relation between the employee and employer is a sine qua non for industrial peace. A trade union always strives for achieving this objective. However, the bureaucratic attitude and unilateral thinking of management may lead to conflicts in the organization which ultimately disturb the relations between the workers and management. Trade union, being the representative of all the workers, may carry out continuous negotiation with the management with a view to promoting industrial peace.

Safeguarding organizational health and interest of industry:

Organizational health can be diagnosed by methods evolved for grievance redressal and techniques adopted to reduce the rate of absenteeism and labor turnover and to improve the employee relations. Trade union by their effective working may achieve employee satisfaction. Thus, trade union helps in reducing the rate of absenteeism, labor turnover and developing systematic grievance settlement procedures leading to harmonious industrial relations. Trade union can thus contribute to the improvements in level of production and productivity, discipline and improve quality of work life.

Industrial Action:
Trade unions may enforce strikes or resistance to lockouts in furtherance of particular goals.

Political activity:
Trade unions may promote legislation favorable to the interests of their members or workers as a whole. To this end they may pursue campaigns, undertake lobbying, or financially support individual candidates or parties (such as the Labor Party in Britain) for public office.

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Why workers join Trade Union? Trade unions are like to play a vital role for its members in case of job losses, or unfair labor practice or inappropriate working conditions that help workers to think for joining a trade union. Few reasons that motivate p e o p l e t o j o i n a t r a d e u n i o n a r e - - g r e a t e r b a r g a i n i n g p o w e r (On economic and non-economic issues), ---Steady employment -- (Job security), --Rationalization of personnel policy -- (Consistent treatment), --Protection from economic hazard, recognition and participation in organizational --policy, compulsion -- (peer/social/political pressure), --And general mistrust of management. Why workers do not join Trade Union? Trade union is a continuous association of wage earners. It is formed for the purpose of maintaining and improving the conditions of the working lives. But there may be some reasons that resist workers to join trade unions. They are- lack of compelling reasons, mistrust of unions, corruption in unions, continuous political influence and pressure, and above all lack of unity of the workers.

Types of Trade Union:

Generally There are 4 types of trade unions:1. Craft unions-this union represents workers with a particular skill 2. Industrial unions-this union represents all workers in one industry with different skills 3. General unions-this union represents workers with different skills 4. White collar unions-this union represents special skills like engineer or something In Bangladesh trade union are categorized into those segment with example--

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Craft Unions The tendency towards the formation of craft unions has been strongest in countries such as the Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago where skilled and trained workers were willing to develop unions on behalf of themselves. Few craft unions have remained completely for a single craft and tend to become more multi-craft in a battle for economic survival and relevance, as the different craft areas have encountered difficulties in modernizing periods.examplemusicians ,actors ,&BD HRM firms. Industrial Unions Like craft unions, industrial unions also depend on changes in the economy. Some industrial unions in areas such as sugar and oil and dock work have suffered significantly as a result of technological changes.exampleNational union of miners ,BGMEA. White Collar White collar unions are some of the most vibrant and successful in Bangladesh. Many of them are public sector unions, and except in periods of structural adjustment, benefit from financial security as their members are generally able to pay union dues which are deducted from a central source. Example National union of Teachers. There are still many white collar workers in several areas in Bangladesh, especially in supervisory and management positions, who are yet to be organized into trade unions. General General or blanket unions which emerged from the early post-Second World War period continue to dominate the trade union scene in the sub- continent. Several unions which started out as craft or industrial unions later expanded to include other types of members and have thus evolved to become general unions.exampleunions of cleaners ,clerical staff ,& transport worker. The reality is that whatever the structure of the trade union, bargaining at the enterprise level is overwhelmingly the predominant pattern of the region. In some instances, such as in the hotel sector, sugar, and the public sector, trade unions attempt industrial agreements which cover the entire sector. Bangladesh has long negotiated enterprise agreements, where different unions negotiate agreements with multiple employers in the same area.

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Function of Trade Union:

The functions of trade unions can be divided into the following categories

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1 . Militant or protective or intra -mutual functions : These functions include protecting the workers interest, i.e., hike in wages, providing more benefits, job security, etc., through collective bargaining and direct action such as strikes, gears, etc 2. Fraternal or extra-mural functions: These functions includes providing financial and nonfinancial assistance to workers during the period of strikes and lock outs, extension of medical facilities during sickness and causalities, provision of education, recreation, recreational and housing facilities, provision of social and religious benefits, etc. 3. Political functions : These functions include affiliating the union to a political party, helping the political party in enrolling members, collecting donations, seeking the help of political parties during the periods of strikes and lockouts 4. Social functions: These functions include carrying out social service activities, discharging social responsibilities through various sections of the society, like education the customers. There are various functions in order to attain objectives of trade unions. These are functions relating to: 1. Industrial organizations 2. Trade union organizations. 3. Trade Union members 4. Society This classification is based on principles of interdependence between the industry, organization of union, members and society, each reinforcing and being reinforced by the other.

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Functions relating to Industrial Organization

-To attain higher production quantitatively and qualitatively -To maintain discipline inside industry -Effective redressed of grievances and settlement of dissatisfaction and complaints. -To develop positive attitude of management towards trade unions and improve their status in industry -To prevent unfair labor practices in industry. -To share profits with employees.

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-To enforce employer regarding implementation of statutory provisions beneficial to employees. -To encourage cordial relations between employee and management by settlement of disputes through collective bargaining, joint agreements and voluntary arbitration and by avoiding third party intervention.

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Functions relating to Trade Union organizations

-Training of members regarding effective leadership. -To facilitate communication between trade unions and its members -To prevent inter union rivalry and maintaining integrity of trade union movement. -To create plans and policies in consonance with those of industrial organization and society at large. -To maintain industrial democracy. -To eradicate various social evils from industry for example castism, linguisim and regionalism from workplace -To prevent unfair labor practices -To prevent trade union from exploitation of personal and political interest -To prepare and maintain necessary records regarding meetings and other activities of trade unions -Scientific management of trade unions

Functions relating to Trade Union members

-Settlement of disputes through negotiations, joint consultation and voluntary arbitration -To raise social status of trade union member within industrial organization and society as a whole. -To safeguard employees interest against all sort of exploitation by employers, by trade union members and by political parties. -To create awareness among workers regarding their rights and duties.

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-To ensure improved standard of living by providing various social services like health measures, 13 housing facilities, education facilities, recreation facilities, co-operative societies etc. -To provide effective redressed of grievances and complaints of workers dissatisfaction. -To encourage workers participation in management. -To ensure safe and hygienic working conditions

Functions relating to Society

-To develop positive public opinion regarding trade unions which will lead to their improved social status. -To encourage public regarding government plans and policies and to mobilize peoples participation for their effective implementation in society at large -To encourage prevention of social evils like nepotism, communalism, castiesm, regionalism, linguism, black marketing, sexual harassment etc. -Participation in programs of national development like family planning, a forestation, financial assistance during natural disaster etc.

Important of Trade Union:

The origins of unions existence can be traced back to the 18th century, when the rapid expansion of industrial society attracted women, children and immigrants to the work force in large numbers. The pool of unskilled and semi-skilled labor spontaneously organized themselves in fits and starts throughout its beginning, and would later become an important place for the development of trade unions. Trade unions were also endorsed by the Catholic Church towards the end of the 19th Century. Today, we live in a world where workers have assumed great importance. The employers have started to realize the importance of workers. The employees too have started to form Trade Unions to protect their interests. Bosses around the world have recognized that the best way to resolve issues is by way of dialogue. The employees have realized that to protect themselves from exploitation, unity is very important. This is one of the reasons why trade unions have become so important today.

TRADE UNION 14 Why are trade unions important? Labor unions protect the worker. They make sure the worker is paid for the skills he or she has, that it is equal pay for equal work, they have on the job safety, that they are given overtime if they work more than 8 hours, that they are given breaks and lunch/dinner break in the work day, that they are protected from abuses by the employer, that they are given health and other benefits, that the employer follows state and federal regulations, that they are protected from discrimination or retaliation for reporting abuse/breaking the law, that work conditions meet a standard for providing for heat/cooling/bathrooms/drinking fountains/lunchrooms/break rooms. These things came about because many companies before unions (some still do without union workers) abused the workers. One case in the 1920's was a shirt factory where the workers were chained shut into the building and a fire broke out. The workers couldn't get out of the building because the doors were locked. There have been cases where workers were not allowed to go to the bathroom by a supervisor and if they did they were fired.
Trade unions are a part of society and as such, have to take into consideration the national integration as well. Some important social responsibilities of trade unions include: -- promoting and maintaining national integration by reducing the number of industrial disputes --incorporating a sense of corporate social responsibility in workers -- achieving industrial peace

Importance of Trade Unions: To Employees:

Members of the union tend to have higher wages than non-unionized workers. Trade unions also sometimes act as representatives of workers in case of legal matters. The rights of the employees are better protected. For example, they cannot be unjustly removed from work.

To Employers:
Since the individual rights of workers are better protected and well represented, they tend to be motivated. This results in higher levels of efficiency and improved productivity.

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Reasons for Joining a Trade Union:

If you've wondered a Trade Union does and how it can help you, then here are 10 ways in which a Trade Union can help you. 1. Trade Unions are designed to help members to have their say, and voice their opinions in a way that leaders and management will take note. By combining members' opinions, the message from the workers is stronger than just individual workers moaning and not complaining to management. 2. A Trade Union will provide representation for tribunals and disciplinary actions, and provide legal services when required. This can save thousands of pounds, and ensure that the person representing you has the necessary experience, and has your best interests at heart. 3. Trade Unions campaign at local levels. These campaigns could be in support of issues that affect a town, just as a factory opening up or helping migrant workers looking for work. 4. Trade Unions provide support for regional campaigns. Issues will differ from region to region, as the issues facing central London will be significantly different to those faced in Cumbria, or Cornwall. 5. Provide support for sector wide campaigns. Sector wide campaigns affect a whole industry such as farming, fishing, and car manufacture, and may affect all regions. As these sectors are based country wide, issues will affect all workers, and not just particular regions. A Trade Union will ensure that members are well supported 6. Provide support for national campaigns. National campaigns affect all workers and cover subjects such as pensions, working conditions, employment law and much more. Equal rights for all workers are important to Trade Unions. 7. Trade Unions ensure that Health and Safety rules and regulations are adhered to. From workers on an oil rig, to workers in an office, all employees have the right to safe working conditions and a disease free environment. 8. Trade Union membership helps to get better pay and working conditions. By campaigning on behalf of members, trade unions are able to negotiate better pay and working conditions 9. Trade Unions also carry out research for new campaigns and policies, for members and government policy. 10. Trade Union membership helps to ensure job security, as the union is able to voice its concern and campaign on behalf of its members.

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Why Do People Join Trade Unions? The main reason people join trade unions is so that they can have better pay and working conditions and union protection if there is a problem at work. The table below shows the result of a survey which looked at the reasons why people join trade unions and why they remain union members.

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REASON Support if I have a problem at work Improved pay and conditions Most people at work are members I believe in trade unions Industrial benefits/services Financial services Other

new members % 81.5 42.0 15.4 18.2 7.4 3.5 6.8

Members % 65.9 39.6 32.5 37.5 9.1 2.5 5.3

The important forces that make the employees join a union are as follows:

Greater bargaining power

The individual employee possesses very little bargaining power as compared to that of his employer. If he is not satisfied with the wage and other conditions of employment, he can leave the job. It is not practicable to continually resign from one job after another when he is dissatisfied. This imposes a great financial and emotional burden upon the worker. The better course for him is to join a union that can take concerted action against the employer. The threat or actuality of a strike by a union is a powerful tool that often causes the employer to accept the demands of the workers for better conditions of employment.

Minimum wages
The decisions regarding pay, work, transfer, promotion, etc. are highly subjective in nature. The personal relationships existing between the supervisor and each of his subordinates may influence the management. Thus, there are chances of favoritisms and discriminations. A trade

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union can compel the management to formulate personnel policies that press for equality of treatment to the workers. All the labor decisions of the management are under close scrutiny of the labor union. This has the effect of minimizing favoritism and discrimination.

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Sense of security
The employees may join the unions because of their belief that it is an effective way to secure adequate protection from various types of hazards and income insecurity such as accident, injury, illness, unemployment, etc. The trade union secure retirement benefits of the workers and compel the management to invest in welfare services for the benefit of the workers. Sense of participation The employees can participate in management of matters affecting their interests only if they join trade unions. They can influence the decisions that are taken as a result of collective bargaining between the union and the management. Sense of belongingness Many employees join a union because their co-workers are the members of the union. At times, an employee joins a union under group pressure; if he does not, he often has a very difficult time at work. On the other hand, those who are members of a union feel that they gain respect in the eyes of their fellow workers. They can also discuss their problem with the trade union leaders.

platform for self expression

The desire for self-expression is a fundamental human drive for most people. All of us wish to share our feelings, ideas and opinions with others. Similarly the workers also want the management to listen to them. A trade union provides such a forum where the feelings, ideas and opinions of the workers could be discussed. It can also transmit the feelings, ideas, opinions and complaints of the workers to the management. The collective voice of the workers is heard by the management and give due consideration while taking policy decisions by the management.

Betterment of relationships
Another reason for employees joining unions is that employees feel that unions can fulfill the important need for adequate machinery for proper maintenance of employer-employee relations. Unions help in betterment of industrial relations among management and workers by solving the problems peacefully.

Why some workers do not join trade union?

The Reasons are: 1. The Lack of a compelling reason.

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2. They identify with management. 3. They distrust Union. 4. They fear the corruption in Union.

Nature of Trade Union in Bangladesh:

History Trade union plays a significant role to protect workers rights in Bangladesh. Trade union rights are not adequately protected in Law/Employers are not respected Labor Law or Trade Union Rights The Bangladesh constitution provides for freedom of association; in order to register - Unions must at least 30% of the workers representation of an enterprise - Must obtain authorization from the government - The Registrar may also cancel the registration with Labor Court approval In general, only current employees can be union members, which mean that the loss of a job also leads to the loss of union membership The trade unions are very strong in Bangladesh, although only 3.5 percent of the workforce is unionized, but most of the unions are limited to the public sector or statecontrolled enterprises. The private sector is less unionized and trade unions are practically banned from the Export Processing Zones (EPZ), as the EPZ is exempted from certain labor laws. About 1.8 million of the country's workers belong to unions, out of a total workforce of approximately 58 million. Most of the federations are financially weak and don't have in-house development programmes for the activists. Education level of the workers is not in a satisfactory level. Offices are not equipped with modern communication system.

Actual scenario:
Trade union movement is an offshoot of industrialization. The growth of modern industrial organizations involving use of modern technology and employment of workers has been followed by growth of trade unions throughout the world. The workers feel threatened and I

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am sure you will agree that whenever there is some fear or threat, one comes closer. That applies to the Unions as well. The workers have the fear of being obsolete because of the 19 increased use of technology. They form themselves into groups and feel that they can then not only overcome that fear but also fight better for their welfare. This phenomenon has not only been observed in advanced countries of the world, but also in the developing economies like Bangladesh. The emergence of trade unionism is spontaneous and inherent in the growth of capitalism. The origin of trade unionism lies in the industrial revolution, which disrupted the older way of life and created a new society forged by the shop, the factory, the mine and the industry. Please note that wherever a union exists, top management cannot take unilateral decisions. Management has to consult the union representatives while taking various decisions affecting labor such as wages, lay-off, transfer, discharge, etc. A trade union puts restriction on the discretion of employers for taking decisions involving welfare of employees. In certain organizations, unions have become so strong that they affect every aspect of management. Generally Trade Union Is An Organization Of Workers. It Is A Formed With A View To Improve The Condition Of Workers In The Organization And In Society And Also For Collective Bargaining With Management. A Trade Union Bridges The Relationship Between Workers And Workers And Also Between Workers And Employers. 1. Trade unions are subdivided into different parts. Their internal collision forbids them to unite and be stronger. 2. The trade unions of Bangladesh are highly politicized. They are subordinated to different political parties. 3. Trade unions in Bangladesh are structurally very weak.

4. Trade unions take part in different job related movements as well as political movements not related to their jobs. 5. The leaders of trade unions are very much concerned about their own selfish interests rather than the interests of their followers. 6. Our trade unions are financially and structurally very weak to face the united strength of their employers. 7. The leaders of trade unions are autocratic in their behavior. Hardly have they wanted to listen to the genuine grievances of workers. 8. There is a dearth of knowledgeable union leaders. Lack of proper knowledge about labor laws makes the leaders ineffective to safeguard the interests of workers vis a vis employers.

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Trade Union in Export Processing Zone (EPZ) Allowed

Cotton Bangladesh Report

The Parliament of Bangladesh has recently passed the muchtalked about EPZ Trade Union and Industrial Relations Bill, 2004 that allows formation of trade union bodies in the industrial units and establishments, situated in the Export Processing Zones (EPZs) areas in the country. Workers at EPZs will enjoy trade union right from November 1, 2006 but would not have any affiliation with political parties or their labour fronts. Before the trade union right is ensured, the EPZ workers in the first phase will be able to form "labour representative and welfare committees" empowered to discuss and sign agreements with the owners to protect their (workers) interests. There are six EPZs in Bangladesh that employs about 13.6 million workers and is contributing a fifth of the country's total national export income. The Minister of Law, Barrister Moudud Ahmed, while speaking about the bill said that the government had been in a dilemma for a couple of years over the issue of trade unionism in the EPZs, due to pressure from buyers and strong opposition from major investors. The US government threatened to withdraw Generalized System of Preference (GSP) facilities if full-fledged trade union were not introduced while investors of the EPZ areas threatened to withdraw investment if that facility were given. According to the bill, trade unions can be formed at an industrial unit in the EPZs if 30 per cent workers want it. Then the union will be formed if more than 50 per cent workers take part in a referendum and over 50 per cent of them votes for it. The government reached its decision after holding numerous meetings with investors in the EPZs, American Federation of Labor & Congress of Industrial Organization (AFL-CIO), US Ambassador in Dhaka and World Bank Country Director.

The trade association will run under a constitution incorporated in the act and the executive body will be formed through secret balloting. The body will be able to work as a collective bargaining agent (CBA). The workers' associations in an area can form a federation; but will not be allowed to get involved with a body or federation outside the area or a political party or its labour front. The associations

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are not entitled to participate in any political activities. The EPZ area was off-limit to trade union since its inception in 1980. The EPZs are regulated under the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Act, 1980. Impact of trade union on management in Bangladesh Every association has impacts in management. Trade union has both positive and negative impacts on management. Positive impacts:
Trade union plays a major role in creating ideal working conditions. It creates pressure on

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management to do a favorable roster for workers. Trade union always helps management to create better policies for workers and to plan effective production targets. Labors are treated fairly, only then they will maintain the working standard. Trade unions negotiate for the standard wage and benefits with the management. Trade union helps the management to make working environment more active which increases the productivity as well as the profit. Political influences existence makes the trade union not to interfere in management decisions. Trade union is hugely helping the management to cope with the competition by motivating workers to produce more and implementing management tactics. Negative impacts:
Trade unions creating more positions by the permission of management and appointing more

than need of workers. Its creating a surplus of manpower but not of productivity. T r a d e u n i o n o f B a n g l a d e s h b a r g a i n s m o r e t h a n t h e y u n d e r s t a n d because of the limitations of their knowledge. So it becomes difficult to make any decision by consulting with the TU. If dont consult then they strike. It is the backend support of politics what is creating them more powerful. Trade union is legal and it has the right to discuss with the management. That is why TU think about its power. When they think they have equal power of management then clashes are started. In companies labors are awarded for good work and threatened for bad work. But if its punished

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then trade union interfere and dont let to happen the punishment. So it increases crime of the labors. Trade union leaders always try to save their interest first then the labor. And it is always communicated that management body did the wrong. So this unethical performance creates conflict between TU and managerial body. For the power of politics trade union always dishonor the management. They dont listen to them; dont obey orders even set their compensations by their own. All is because of the sick environment of politics of Bangladesh.

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Problems and Weaknesses of Trade Unions in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh is still known as a third world country. Though it is a poor developing country, in this country Trade Unions have a lot of unavoidable problems. Some of those are discussed below:

Lack of consciousness:
The major numbers of members of trade union are not actually completely aware about their legal rights and duties. That is the reason they dont know the favorable characteristics of trade unions. That is why in Bangladesh trade unions are not strong enough to complete the need of the economy.

Lack of Unity:
Trade union is actually a unity of the labor force for assuring their need. But in Bangladesh trade unions are separated for political influence. It is a shock that only for difference in political view, every industry has at least three major parts of a single union.

Lack of knowledge:
In our country the level of workers is not properly educated, Workers is not properly educated. They dont have enough knowledge about their rights and duties. In this case trade union could be helpful very much to develop workers KSA, but the whole level of workers is lack in knowledge. That is why they dont feel the need or contribution of trade unions; again trade unions are banged here.

Political influence:
The most powerful and deep affecting barrier for the growth of trade union of Bangladesh is its political environment. Most of the trade unions of Bangladesh are not free from the political influence. Political leaders use the trade unions for illegal purposes. For this the actual environment of

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trade union is not seen in Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, trade unions work a part of political 23 parties not as a free right saving association.

Division of trade union:

B a n g l a d e s h i s a c o u n t r y w h e r e e v e r y organization has more trade unions in name only. Those unions are driven by the political leaders of various political parties. So a huge verity of problem arises in the organizations. The overall productivity got down. Moreover trade union cannot play its role perfectly. That is why disputes are created and more division are created under different political wings.

Limited membership
Trade Unions were established in limited areas. They were concentrated only in industrial areas, that too in the urban areas and in the organized sectors. They were unknown in rural and undeveloped areas. Only three per cent of industrial workers were associated with the labor organizations.

Small size of labor unions

Large organizations were required to put pressure on the government, because the latter had the potential to suppress even larger organizations. But, unfortunately, most of the trade unions in Bangladesh were small which made them unable to put any significant pressure on the government. Further, these organizations had restricted area of operation.

Small funds
The absence of big funds was the, greatest weakness of the trade unions during this period. , Members of the unions were poor. The poverty made them' unable to contribute significantly to the funds of their organization.

Low wages
During freedom struggle, there were only a few industries in the country. The employers of these few industries paid very low wages to the workers making their economic condition miserable. The workers were unable to pay even the small membership fee for the trade unions. Hence, they never joined any trade union.

Job through the contractors

During the freedom struggle, the workers would get job through contractors. It was so because the migrated workers were not able to find work on their own. The job contractors used to be the supporters of the factory owners. Hence, the workers employed through the contractors were not

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able to participate in the labor movement.

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Illiteracy
Majority of the workers were illiterate. They were not aware of their rights. They did not even know how much they should be paid for the work they did. The labor movement could hardly be expected to pick.

Bangladesh: Failure of the Trade Unions to Defend Workers Rights

Stagnation of labor movements in the era of globalization
The readymade garment industry has emerged as the main manufacturing sector in Bangladesh since the 1980s when the World Bank and other international agencies in cooperation with the local elites ushered in an export-oriented development policy in the third world. The sector has also attracted a large number of unskilled rural women. Major issues ranging from low wages, worsening working and physical conditions of the factories, lack of welfare facilities such as healthcare, day-care, housing, education for the workers children, physical and sexual harassments, etc have yet to be addressed in a telling manner, either by the state or by the owners. Although there is no bar, the workers in the RMG sector seldom address the labor issues using labor unions. In a broad sense, the labor unions in Bangladesh in the era of globalization have completely failed to address labor rights although the workers in this sector are absolutely exploited by the owners as some social scientists, such as Ronaldo Munck, think. Thus, it is very important to identify the major constraints of labor movements in Bangladesh in the RMG sector in the era of globalization. In Bangladesh, the two successive military regimes restrained labor protests by buying many radical and left labor leaders and by providing them lucrative state posts such as ministers and advisors. The other two major apparatuses such as civil bureaucracy and political parties have immersed into corruption, nepotism and lootings, whose members seldom think about the welfare of the poor workers. The essence of overdeveloped state is very similar to what Gunner Myrdal termed the third world states, i.e. the notion of soft state. According to Myrdal, all third world states are inefficient in terms of managing huge activities by various public wings, rather than by the civil society being common in the west. In reference to the labor rights of the poor workers, we see that the state does not provide enough supports to the poor workers since the poor workers are powerless and have no voices. Although Bangladesh ratified various ILO conventions and although labor rights are vividly conceded in the constitution and other labor policies and documents, violations of labor law and ILO ratification is a very common thing; very little evidence might be found where the state officials monitor the applications of labor laws and the ILO conventions.

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In fact, no actions are taken against the owners even though concomitant violations of labor laws and ILO conventions have been a common phenomenon in all the private sectors 25 including the RMG industries. Since the colonial regime, on many occasions, it has been found that the workers protest movements have been instigated by the repressions of the state and the private forces of the employers, i.e. by the state police and hired thugs. In fact, for both the premature development of the educated middle class and civil society, the poor workers do not get any moral supports, valuable resources and pressures that might be acted otherwise as a pressure to the powerful state apparatuses and the employers on behalf of the working class.

Suggestions:
In the context of the world industry, Bangladesh is very younger. So it should follow some measurements in order to increase its stability o f economy. In the light of Japanese and western trade union concept, some suggestion or steps can be defined to improve and establish the real trade union culture in Bangladesh. These steps must be taken in both public and private sectors. These are as follows: Strengthening bilateral collective bargaining for solving problems quickly and effectively. Multiplicity of trade union creates the rivals in a union. So it must be reduced. Political involvement must be reduced. A trade union without the control of politics only can be the way of all solution of the problems of management and worker. Organization must support financially as trade unions support the worker it will change the motives of worker and will be more productive for company. Workers are less knowledgeable, so training programs under trade union should be helpful to develop the skills of the workers. Trade unions function should be increased and widened throughout the organization. It will help workers to work voluntarily for organizational growth. Union leader must be given importance and encourage him many ways to play positive role in the union as his power implications. Trust is a big asset of an organization. If trust between workers and management increases, productivity increases. This is the job of an effective trade union. Management must help and guide trade unions to settle industrial clashes and crisis. It is trade union who has control over the workers. It helps totally to stop strikes and rivals of workers. The demand of trade union matters a lot to the economy. If demands are reasonable and real

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then it should be worked out. But if it is not, then a strike breaks out. So trade unions always should demand reasonable thing to the management. Suggestions for Healthy growth of Trade Unions in Bangladesh by overcoming weakness and limitations One Union per Industry Paid Union Officials Development of Internal Leadership Recognition of Trade Unions Improved Financial condition

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Conclusion:
The industrial relation system is pre-dominantly confrontational in nature rather than cooperative in Bangladesh. It is characterized by the predominant position of informal economy, fragmented unions, weak labor institutions, lack of enforcement of labor laws and conflict ridden employer-employee relations. Although in recent times the rate of unionization has increased in the RMG sector, trade union affiliation is low in Bangladesh compared to many other developing countries. The main reasons for this are the fall in employment in previously highly organized sectors, rise of the service sector and increasing flexible types of employment relationships. Data are available indicates fragmentation and contradiction in membership of employers and workers organizations. Moreover, data on membership does not reflect the role these organizations play in political and socio-economic processes and institutions. The promotion of independent trade unions and collective bargaining can contribute to political and social stability and consequently create more favorable climate for foreign investment. Several studies of the World Bank and ILO support the view that freedom of association and collective bargaining contribute to improving economic and trade performance and have found no negative correlation. Rather, highly coordinated bargaining accompanied by higher rates of unionization can contribute to positive economic trends. Trade unions have an important role to play in settling disputes between workers and management over wages by way of collective bargaining. However, empirical data show that the experience is far from satisfactory. France for example. One can remember the role of Solidarnosc in Poland for bringing communism down. In Britain, the conflict between Margaret Thatcher and the

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miners union in the late 1970s was a major political event, rather than a simple industrial dispute. All the developing countries trade unions were influenced politically, but they used politics to create a better solution. In Bangladesh politics in trade union is being used as a weapon of destruction. Bangladesh should also start practicing like Japanese trade union which has a single union for single enterprise. There is no conflict, no unfair means and no strikes in productivity and the growth of the overall economy.

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Reference:
1. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_James 2.shaila Islam(Advocate & amp; Legal Associates)About Company Law Matter[Company Registration,TIN,Trade Licence,Trade Mark,VAT,IRC,ERC] 11.40 pm 3.Read more: The importance of trade unions | Law 4.Teacher http://www.lawteacher.net/employment-law/essays/the-importance-of-tradeunions-law-essay.php#ixzz2NuFaOnVo 5.Follow us: @lawteachernet on Twitter | LawTeacher Net on Facebook 6. TRADE UNIONS IN BANGLADESH AND ITS IMPACT Submitted By:Md. Omar Faruq Chowdhury -045 12601 Submission Date: 28th November 2012. 7. http://socyberty.com/work/nature-of-trade-unions-in-bangladesh/#ixzz2NuGYddpR

8. This article (Stagnation of labor movements in the era of globalization) is a section of a paper
presented at the United Association for Labor Educators Conference at the National Labor College in Maryland, US. Zia Rahman, an associate professor of sociology at Dhaka University, is presently a doctoral candidate and an instructor the University of Calgary, Canada. 9. For useful Documents like this and Lots of more Educational and Technological Stuff visited Visit...www.thecodexpert.com 10. The list of trade unions and union federations by country IS Preferred in July 2011. 11. A Article from Associate Management Counselor, Bangladesh Institute of Management (BIM) sarfarazbim@gmail.com / 01817528067. 12. A K M Ashraf Uddin, Research & Education Secretary Bangladesh Textile & Garment Workers League (BTGWL)

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13. F Haque Tower, Level 7, 107 Bir Uttam C.R. Datta Road, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh Phone: +880 2 9673851, Fax: +880 2 8622534 Email: mukut.decent@yahoo.com
14. actrav-courses.itcilo.org/en/a3-04018/a3-04018.../Bangladesh/.../file

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15. www.csrtextile.com/index.php?...10648%3Atrade-union-in-banglade.. 16.www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=114450 Nov 18, 2009 17. openblogbd.wordpress.com/.../trade-unions-needed-for-Bangladesh-r... May 23, 2012 18. www.scribd.com Creative Writing Short Stories
Jul 2, 2010

19. www.thefinancialexpress-bd.com/print.php?ref...
Feb 6, 2013

20. ICTUR et al., ed. (2005). Trade Unions of the World (6th ed.). London, UK: John Harper Publishing. ISBN 0-9543811-5-7.

TRADE UNION Appendix: Bangladesh Institute of Labor Studies-BILS

Established in 1995, Bangladesh Institute of Labor Studies-BILS is the only labor institute of the country. As an apex organization, BILS endeavors to uphold the causes of working people and trade unions of Bangladesh. 13 major National Trade Union Federations are associated with BILS. Keeping in view to build up a just and democratic society, enabling the workers organizations to play appropriate role as a major force BILS emphasizes on capacity building of the Trade Unions through training, research and information sharing. Protecting workers rights is the main objective
Categories Total number unions/federations 32 108 26 of Number of unions included Nuermb of members

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National federation Industrial federation Garments federation Basic union

1,264 721 80

1,263,665 640,221 50,149

5,242

2,069,614

of BILS and it strives to promote just and worker friendly policies and laws in Bangladesh. It also plays a catalyst role in bridging trade unions, civil society and the government on labor market issues.

Trade union rights in practice and violations in 2008: Background: On 17 December, Bangladesh lifted its two-year-old state of emergency, less than two weeks ahead of parliamentary elections. In the absence of any legal framework to resolve work-related issues, workers resorted to street demonstrations, strikes, and sit-ins. The Bangladesh government blamed outsiders for worker unrest in the garment sector. The country has some 4000 garment factories, employing around 2.2 million workers, mostly women. Workers faced inhumane treatment, unannounced plant closures, late payment of wages, cheating on overtime pay, and violent aggression from company thugs and police. The minimum salary, last fixed in 2006 at US$25 per month, remained frozen throughout 2008. The International Labor Organization (ILO) condemned Bangladesh for its continuing failure to provide full trade union freedoms and for permitting serious violations of ILO Conventions.

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