Employment Injury Scheme (EIS) Pilot: Advancing Social Protection for Bangladesh’s Garment Workers
The Employment Injury Scheme (EIS) Pilot is a collaborative initiative between the Government of Bangladesh, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and GIZ, launched on June 21, 2022. This pilot aims to introduce a contributory social insurance system for the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector, providing income protection to workers who suffer work-related injuries or fatalities. The scheme offers monthly compensation payments as top-ups to the lump-sum benefits provided by the Central Fund, aligning with international standards set by ILO Convention No. 121. These top-ups are financed through voluntary contributions from international brands and retailers.
International Labour Organization
Strategic Objectives
Social Protection: Provide financial support to workers affected by workplace injuries or fatalities, ensuring income replacement and aiding in rehabilitation.
Data Collection and Capacity Building: Conduct research on occupational accidents, diseases, and rehabilitation practices across approximately 150 representative factories, covering at least 150,000 workers, to assess the feasibility and cost efficiency of a comprehensive EIS in Bangladesh.
EIS-Pilot
Policy Development: Support the establishment of a sustainable and statutory EIS, transitioning from the pilot phase to a permanent system within 3–5 years.
Stakeholder Engagement: Foster collaboration among government bodies, employers, workers, and development partners to ensure the successful implementation and scaling of the scheme.
Expected Outcomes
Enhanced Worker Protection: Provision of timely and adequate compensation to workers and their families in the event of work-related injuries or fatalities.
Improved Data and Insights: Comprehensive data on occupational health and safety, informing future policies and practices.
Strengthened Institutional Capacity: Development of robust systems and governance structures to manage and sustain the EIS.
Increased Awareness and Participation: Higher levels of awareness among workers and employers about the benefits and processes of the EIS, leading to greater participation rates.
Alignment with Strategic Goals
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Contributes to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by promoting safe and secure working environments for all workers.
International Labour Standards: Aligns with ILO Convention No. 121, ensuring that work-related injuries and diseases are adequately compensated.
National Labour Policies: Supports the Government of Bangladesh’s efforts to enhance social protection systems and improve labour rights within the RMG sector.