On November 28th at approximately midnight, one of the largest garment factories in Bangladesh turned into a 10-story inferno. Officials believe the blaze to be a result of rising tensions between underpaid workers and their management, tensions that resulted in the arson of not only the factory but also fifteen trucks carrying clothes all ready to be shipped out.
Tempers were only made worse by the recent pressure put on the garment industry after multiple accidents in the past few months, such as the collapse of a factory at Rana Plaza that killed over 500 people. In response to the tragedy, the leaders of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exports Association declared the collapse to be an act of God, and refused to pay the victims their due compensation. This is an awkward situation for the government as the garment industry in itself is worth $20-billion, and produces 80% of the countries exported goods.
The final straw that caused the workers to revolt is believed to be a loudspeaker announcement that declared the death of a worker after police opened fire on a blockade of garment workers who had earlier vandalized a separate factory.
One factory alone provided jobs to over 18,000 people and the workers themselves have readily admitted to needing this work. However, they are tired of working for pitiful wages ($0.21 per hour), and are finally taking a stand for their rights.
Sources:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/it-was-an-act-of-god/
https://www.commondreams.org/headline/2013/11/30