The reforms put in place in Bangladesh after a garment factory collapsed 16 months ago, killing 1,100 people have improved conditions, but workers still fear for their safety and jobs, reports the Pittsburgh Post Gazette.
170 American and European clothing brands signed an international accord intended to improve conditions after that disaster.
Increased inspections have decreased the chance of fire, building collapses and other large scale disasters. Workers however say they continue to work long hours, low wages and poor working conditions. Many fear they could lose their job if they are caught getting involved in union organizing activities.
The US based Human Rights Watch issued a report in February which warned “managers intimidate and mistreat employees involved in setting up unions, including threatening to kill them.”
You can read what the reforms have accomplished and the thoughts of workers in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette.
