Dean Peter Henry welcomed senior government officials from Bangladesh, local manufacturers, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Export Association, and representatives of Bangladesh civil society and workers’ organizations. Major U.S. and European retailers, several Western governments, key intergovernmental organizations, and outside experts joined the conference, which marked the Center’s inaugural event.

The discussion focused on critical topics related to Bangladesh workplace safety, including the dynamics of the sourcing relationships, regulatory efforts, factory remediation plans, and the role of foreign governments and international organizations.

Based in part on comments and suggestions made at this meeting, the Center produced a report in April 2014 on enhancing human rights and building a sustainable garment sector in Bangladesh. The Center convened a follow-up meeting in Dhaka in April 2014.

Read more about the Center's supply chains project.