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Paper short abstract

The main focus of my paper is on changes affecting the Ready Made Garment industry in Bangladesh in the context of just transition – is it just, does it work, what challenges and terms does it bring for factory workers, owners and local policymakers? The analysis is based on my ongoing research.

Paper long abstract

In recent years, both European countries and those that cooperate with them, including Bangladesh, have begun to emphasise sustainable development, environmental protection and the circularity of materials. The clothing industry is one of the most important sectors in which changes need to be implemented. In my presentation, I will focus on the example of Bangladesh's Ready Made Garment industry, which, through its trade relations, is obligated to implement European Union regulations on sustainability.

Remarks will focus on the challenges faced by actors involved in this important for country industry. Over the past 10 years, many large-scale modern factories have been built in Bangladesh. Manufacturers express their concern for the environment. The concept of sustainability, which is currently simplified to care about environment, is given priority over goals such as decent work and wages or local methods of caring for the environment. It is also emphasised by policymakers without criticism. In my presentation i will analyze (a) if these implementation practices contribute to bringing just transition in social, economic, and environmental contexts of Bangladesh and (b) what kind of long-term changes might it bring about working conditions. Is it possible to achieve a just transition that treats both – workers and environment equally or Just Transition necessarily mean sacrificing one of the parties involved?