Beyond Transition towards Industrial Sustainability in Bangladesh: Assessment of Just Transition from a Human Rights Perspective

Md. Aurongajeb Akond

Journal of Business and Social Review in Emerging Economies, 2026, vol. 12, issue 1, 137-150

Abstract: Purpose: The study explores industrial sustainability in Bangladesh's RMG, Ship-breaking, and Tannery industries in light of the analytical framework of just transition. The study recommends an inclusive industrial sustainability transition policy by analyzing the impact of green industrial transition on employment conditions, occupational safety and health, wages, freedom of association, and social protection.Methodology: This mixed-methods study used quantitative survey data and qualitative in-depth interviews. Green certified RMG, ship-breaking, and tannery workers were interviewed with a structured questionnaire (n=200). Mixed methods were chosen to understand workers' experiences across sectors and complex issues like rights violations, union activities, and green transitions.Findings: The results revealed contradictions between environmental compliance and human rights, particularly in relation to labor rights. Market-driven sustainability appears with minimal participatory approaches and ignores issues like low wages, occupational hazards, social dialogue, and social protection. The industrial sustainability transition contradicts with the adoption of rights-based just transition principles without integrating labor rights, and equitable economic restructuring.Implications: Rights-based approaches are key to sustainable development to prevent further inequalities. Policy recommendations advocate for enhanced labor governance, human rights integration, and robust worker participation in sustainability transitions.&&&&&&&&&&&

Keywords: Industrial sustainability; Human rights; Labor rights; Just transition; Social Movement (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:src:jbsree:v:12:y:2026:i:1:p:137-150

DOI: 10.26710/jbsee.v12i1.3744

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