DHAKA, Bangladesh — Garment workers in Bangladesh have expressed frustration over the government's recent wage hike, saying it is not enough to keep up with the rising cost of living.
The government announced a 5% wage hike in October, following weeks of protests by garment workers. However, workers say the hike is not enough to cover their basic needs, such as food, housing, and transportation.
"The government's wage hike is a joke," said one garment worker, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "It's not enough to buy anything."
Another worker said, "We are struggling to make ends meet. We are not asking for much, just a decent wage so we can live a decent life."
The garment industry is Bangladesh's biggest export earner, generating billions of dollars in revenue each year. However, garment workers are among the poorest in the country.
The minimum wage for garment workers was last increased in 2016. Since then, the cost of living has increased by over 20%.
The government has defended its wage hike, saying it is in line with the country's economic growth. However, workers say the government needs to do more to help them make ends meet.
"We are the backbone of this country's economy," said one worker. "We deserve to be paid a fair wage."
The protests by garment workers have highlighted the growing inequality in Bangladesh. The country's richest 1% own more than 50% of the country's wealth.
The government has said it is committed to reducing inequality, but critics say it is not doing enough.
"The government needs to take action to address the root causes of inequality in Bangladesh," said one economist. "Otherwise, the problem will only get worse."
