Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment Industry: Unrest Analysis after the Political Changes on August 05, 2024

Abstract: This article analyzes the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry in Bangladesh, focusing on the labor unrest that erupted after the political changes of August 5, 2024. Using a qualitative methodology and secondary data, it identifies the primary drivers of the turmoil, including a post-regime political vacuum and a complex mix of new and old labor demands. It argues that while workers' dissatisfaction over wages and benefits was a key factor, the unrest was significantly exacerbated by a breakdown in law and order, and alleged interference from local and foreign interests. The study highlights the profound impact of this instability on the RMG sector, leading to factory closures, canceled orders, and significant financial losses, while also revealing the industry’s surprising resilience and export growth. The research further explores the geopolitical context, suggesting that neighboring countries are exploiting Bangladesh’s instability to gain a larger share of the global garment market. It concludes with key recommendations for ensuring the long-term stability and competitiveness of the sector, emphasizing the need for improved employer-worker relationships, increased security, and fair purchasing practices from international buyers. Ultimately, this article provides a comprehensive analysis of how a political upheaval triggered cascading effects that exposed the vulnerabilities of a critical national industry. Keywords: RMG sector, Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry, political changes, labor unrest, political stability. Title: Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment Industry: Unrest Analysis after the Political Changes on August 05, 2024 Author: Dr. Mizanur Rahman International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025 Page No: 429-436 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 22-November-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17680133 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/bangladeshs-ready-made-garment-industry-unrest-analysis-after-the-political-changes-on-august-05-2024