Employee Ownership Effort in Bangladesh

The Institute for Integrated Rural Development, a nonprofit organization in Bangladesh, is starting a 534-employee employee-owned garment manufacturing business for poor rural women in the country. Employees would own 75% of the stock, using a model developed by the Center for Economic and Social Justice in Arlington, Virginia. Employees will own the shares through a workers' association, similar to those now operating in Egypt. Employees will have a role in decision making at the company as well. The project has already recveived substantial financial backing, as well as pledges from major retailers, including Wal-Mart, to purchase its products. Information on the project, and how to support similar efforts, can be found at www.iird.interconnection.org.