Reinstate the Bangladesh Center for Worker Solidarity's NGO status

Take action now! Please send a letter today to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh insisting that the Bangladesh Center for Worker Solidarity's (BCWS) NGO status be reinstated and that all harassment of BCWS cease immediately.

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Your Message:

Having been alerted by the Maquila Solidarity Network, I write to express grave concern regarding the unjust detention of Aminul Islam, who was held in Bangladesh NSI (National Security Intelligence) custody without any formal complaint on June 16, 2010. I am also writing to urge your government to restore the BCWS's status as a non-governmental organization (NGO) by allowing it to keep its registration with the NGO Affairs Bureau (NAB).

It is my understanding that the BCWS and Mr. Islam have been accused of inciting worker unrest.  However, BCWS is an internationally-known and well-respected advocate for workers’ rights with a strong record of credible research and professionalism.

The actions against BCWS call into question the sincerity of the Bangladeshi government to follow through on its commitments to improve labour rights.

I respectfully call upon your government to:

1.	Immediately withdraw the cancellation letter of June 3, 2010, and restore BCWS’s NGO registration;

2.	Investigate Mr. Islam’s detention and torture and hold those individuals responsible accountable and ensure they pay appropriate reparation;

3.	Ensure Mr. Islam receives the medical treatment he needs;

4.	Provide Mr. Islam and all other BCWS staff members with assurances of their safety;

5.	Instruct the Deputy Commissioner of Dhaka to desist from seizing the office and property of BCWS; and

6.	Instruct the Manager of the Mercantile Bank to desist from freezing the BCWS bank account.

BCWS is a vital voice for labour rights in Bangladesh. I am disturbed to see that local efforts to improve conditions for workers are being met with intimidation and repression by the government.  I hope that you will resolve this situation immediately and recommit yourself to allowing labour rights organizations to operate freely without fear of reprisal in your country.

Regards,