The tea industry in Bangladesh has long been marked by harsh labor conditions, with workers struggling under low wages, poor housing, and limited access to social security. Trade unions have intervened to advocate for workers' rights, but their impact is often debated. This study examines the role of these unions in representing tea plantation workers, focusing on their organization, strategies, and challenges. Through fieldwork, interviews with union leaders and workers, and analysis of labor policies, the research investigates how unions collaborate with plantation owners and the government to push for improved conditions. It also highlights the obstacles unions face, including internal conflicts, lack of unity, and external pressures that undermine their negotiating power. The study considers the broader context, exploring how laws, politics, and employer resistance influence union efforts. Although unions have made some progress, the research reveals that deep-rooted issues limit their ability to effect meaningful change. It advocates for stronger labor laws, increased worker involvement in unions, and greater unity among labor groups. By amplifying the voices of tea workers, this research contributes to the ongoing discussion about labor rights and social justice in Bangladesh's tea industry, emphasizing the need for substantial reform.

 

Key words: Tea workers, trade unions, labour rights, collective bargaining, Bangladesh tea industry, labour justice.