Bangladesh Garment Workers Protest Over Wages and Rising Living Costs

On 04/11/2026, thousands of garment workers reportedly protested in Bangladesh over demands for higher minimum wages amid rising living costs. According to the event account, demonstrations disrupted garment-producing industrial areas, with clashes between workers and police and temporary closures affecting hundreds of factories. The unrest drew attention to wage pressures in Bangladesh's ready-made garment industry, which employs approximately four million workers and accounts for more than 80% of the country's merchandise export earnings. Bangladesh's garment sector has experienced recurring labour disputes over wages, working conditions, and inflation. In November 2023, the government approved a monthly minimum wage of 12,500 Bangladeshi taka for entry-level garment workers, following protests and negotiations. Labour organisations have continued to raise concerns about whether wages adequately cover household expenses. The reported November 2026 demonstrations reflect these longstanding disputes, although the precise number of participating workers, factory closures, injuries, and arrests requires independent confirmation.