EU Ambassador Mr. Michael Millar Visits ECDO to Witness Leadership Development among Tea Garden Women Workers

On February 12, 2025, a distinguished delegation from the European Union (EU) and Oxfam in Bangladesh visited the Ethnic Community Development Organization (ECDO) to observe the impact of the ‘Leadership Development of Tea Garden Women Workers on Their Rights’ project in Sylhet. The visit was led by H.E. Mr. Michael Millar, Ambassador & Head of the EU Delegation to Bangladesh, accompanied by representatives from both the EU and Oxfam in Bangladesh, a UK-based international organization. The esteemed EU delegation included Ms. Jurate Smalsky Merville, Counsellor & Team Leader, Human Capital Development; Ms. Laila Jasmin Banu, Programme Manager; and Ms. Jui Chakma, Programme Manager. The Oxfam in Bangladesh team comprised Mr. Ashish Damle, Country Director; Mr. Md. Sariful Islam, Head of Advocacy & Communication; Ms. Shahajadi Begum, Programme Coordinator; Mr. Tarek Aziz, Programme Coordinator; Ms. Khadeja Akhter Antora, Programme Officer; and Mr. Shameul Islam, Communication Officer. Arriving at ECDO’s office at 2:00 PM, the delegation was warmly received by Mr. Lakshmikanta Singh, Executive Director of ECDO, who delivered an insightful presentation on the organization’s impactful initiatives and ongoing project activities. Following the discussion, the team proceeded to the Dolodoli Tea Garden, where they were greeted with a heartfelt traditional welcome featuring the lighting of the ‘Mongol Pradip’ and a captivating ‘Jhumur’ dance performance by the tea garden women workers. A highlight of the visit was an interactive courtyard session, where the delegation engaged in meaningful discussions with the tea garden women workers. The women shared their experiences, challenges, and aspirations, shedding light on the realities of their daily lives. To further illustrate their struggles and resilience, ECDO organized a powerful spot drama titled ‘Shabuj Brikhkher Neel Kosto,’ which deeply resonated with the attendees. The EU delegates expressed their appreciation for ECDO’s initiatives and showed keen interest in understanding the wages, benefits, and overall working conditions of tea garden workers. They also inquired about the role of trade unions in advocating for workers’ rights within the tea industry. The visit concluded with a productive meeting with tea garden leaders, focusing on strategies to strengthen leadership skills among women workers. Currently, the project is being implemented in the Dolodoli, Kewachera, and Hilluachera tea gardens of Sylhet Sadar Upazila. With the support of the EU and Oxfam in Bangladesh, ECDO remains committed to empowering women tea workers through leadership training, rights awareness, and community advocacy. Hosting the esteemed representatives from the EU and Oxfam was an immense honor for ECDO. This collaboration is a significant step towards sustainable development and the empowerment of marginalized communities. ECDO looks forward to continuing its mission of fostering leadership and ensuring the rights of indigenous tea garden workers in Bangladesh.