Dhaka, July 11 -- It is difficult to say as to what extent the International Labour Organisation (ILO) is able to influence the decision of the global apparel buyers. Yet the request made by the Bangladesh authorities to this international body to dissuade the buyers from cancelling their work orders given to apparel factories does highlight a sense of desperation on the part of the former.

The state minister for labour and employment while taking part in a 'virtual global summit on Covid-19 and the world of work' late last week wanted the ILO to play a role in saving livelihoods of workers in the Bangladesh RMG sector. Cancellation of work orders would inevitably lead to factory layoff or closure. And the workers would be the first casu...