Awareness and Advocacy Meeting on Tea Garden Women Workers’ Rights in Sylhet

On June 24, 2025, the Ethnic Community Development Organization (ECDO) organized an “Awareness and Advocacy Meeting on Tea Garden Women Workers’ Rights” at the conference hall of a prestigious hotel in Sylhet city. The event aimed to influence decision-makers and stakeholders to ensure decent workplace conditions for tea garden women workers. The meeting brought together local media representatives, civil society organizations (CSOs), government and non-government officials, and various stakeholders committed to improving the welfare of tea workers. The discussion was held under the project titled “Leadership Development of Tea-Garden Women Workers on Their Rights”, supported by Oxfam in Bangladesh and co-funded by the European Union (EU). The event was chaired by ECDO’s Executive Director, Mr. Lakshmikanta Singh. Notable attendees included Mr. Iqbal Siddiqui, former President of the Sylhet Press Club, and Mr. Shah Didar Alam Noble, former General Secretary of the Sylhet District Press Club. During the meeting, participants highlighted the pressing issues faced by tea garden workers. Rupa Moni Das, a tea worker from Doldoli Tea Garden, said, “Our wage is only 178 taka. Even this amount is not paid regularly.” She also expressed concern about the working environment, stating, “We have to work all day in the garden, but there is no provision for clean water or toilets.” Mr. Azim Uddin, Coordinator of FIVDB, emphasized the need for timely wage payments, stating, “We should all focus on ensuring their wages are paid on time.” Former Sylhet Press Club President Mr. Iqbal Siddiqui remarked, “Tea was once a major cash crop in Bangladesh, exported to other countries. Today, less than 5% of our tea is exported. A syndicate, supported by representatives of tea garden owners in every government, is responsible for the decline of this industry. The government must take this issue seriously. The media also has a vital role to play.” Mr. Shah Didar Alam Noble added, “To protect the tea industry, we must first improve the living standards of tea workers. The rampant drug use in tea gardens must also be addressed.” In his closing remarks, ECDO’s Executive Director, Mr. Lakshmikanta Singh, highlighted the organization’s initiatives to empower women tea workers and develop their leadership capabilities. He stressed the importance of equipping women with the knowledge and resources needed to advocate for their rights and improve their working and living conditions. He called for continued support and collaboration from all sectors to bring about meaningful change in the lives of tea garden workers, especially women.