
A delegation, led by country director of the International Labour Organisation, Tuomo Poutiainen, met environment, forest and climate change adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan at the secretariat in Dhaka on Monday.
The meeting focused on integrating just transition principles into Bangladesh’s climate and development strategies.
Poutiainen said that as economies shift towards greener models, it was vital to prepare the workforce for emerging industries through rescaling, up skilling, and inclusive social protection.
‘Workers, employers, and governments must jointly shape this transition to ensure no one is left behind,’ he said.
Rizwana reaffirmed that the government’s commitment to a fair, inclusive and sustainable transition, a ministry press release said.
She welcomed the ILO’s role in bringing together stakeholders and emphasised the importance of embedding just transition in national policies, including updated Nationally Determined Contribution and the upcoming Climate Prosperity Plan.
The ILO shared its plan to initiate a call to action — a collective commitment by the government, employers, and workers’ organisations — during the upcoming Just Transition Academy in Dhaka.
 The environment adviser appreciated the initiative and expressed support for ensuring Bangladesh’s participation as a key signatory.
Both sides also discussed linking just transition frameworks with global supply chains, labour rights, and responsible investment.
 The ILO expressed willingness to support the government through technical assistance and collaboration across the UN agencies and national platforms.
The meeting concluded with a shared vision: a future where economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity advance hand-in-hand, the release added.