Comparative Study of the Bangladesh Employers' Federation (BEF) and
Employers' Associations in Developed Countries: The Cases of the UK and
Germany
Introduction
Employers’ associations are vital actors in industrial relations, shaping labor policies,
representing employer interests, and providing advisory and support services. While their
objectives are similar across countries, their roles and functions are shaped by national
contexts. This assignment compares the Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF) with
employers’ associations in the United Kingdom (UK) and Germany.
Overview of Employer Associations in Developed Countries
Germany
The Confederation of German Employers’ Associations (BDA) is the main umbrella
organization in Germany. Employers’ associations are typically organized by industry and
region. Their central role lies in collective bargaining with trade unions, where agreements
can become legally binding across industries. They also provide advisory services, research,
and policy advocacy.
United Kingdom
In the UK, the role of employers’ associations has evolved. Since the 1960s, the importance of
multi-employer collective bargaining has declined, but it still exists in certain sectors like
local government and engineering. Today, the focus is more on advisory support, HRM
development, lobbying, and standard-setting for members.
The Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF)
Established in 1998, the Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF) is the only national-level
organization representing employers across industries, trade, and services. Representing
nearly 90% of private employers, it focuses on:
• Advocacy and Lobbying – Engaging with the government in policy and law-making.
• Advisory and Consultation Services – Supporting members in labor disputes, wage
negotiations, and HRM.
• Capacity Building – Conducting training and workshops.
• Information Sharing – Publishing bulletins and reports on labor-related issues.
Comparative Analysis
Aspect
Germany (BDA)
United Kingdom
Bangladesh (BEF)
Structure
Sectoral and
regional
associations under
BDA
National and
sectoral
organizations
Single national
federation (BEF)
Collective
Bargaining
Central function;
legally binding
across industries
Declining; limited to
some sectors
Provides guidance
but not formalized
industry-wide
Policy Role
Strong advocacy
with government
Active lobbying on
business issues
Works closely with
Ministry of Labour
and Employment
Services to
Members
Legal, advisory, HR,
research
HRM support,
standard-setting,
codes of conduct
Advisory,
consultation, and
dispute resolution
Capacity Building
Training and
knowledge transfer
Training and
professional
development
Training, seminars,
and skill-building
Information Sharing
Publications and
research reports
Reports and
guidelines
Bulletins and
weekly labor
reports
Conclusion
Employers’ associations in all three countries aim to protect employers’ interests, but their
approaches differ. In Germany, collective bargaining is the main focus and often applies to
whole industries. In the UK, collective bargaining has declined, and the associations now
emphasize HRM support, lobbying, and setting standards. In Bangladesh, the BEF does not
engage in industry-wide bargaining. Instead, it focuses on advising members, training, and
working with the government on labor policies. Overall, while their goals are similar, each
system reflects the economic and industrial context of its country.
References (APA Style)
Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF). (n.d.). About BEF. Retrieved from
https://www.bef.org.bd
Confederation of German Employers’ Associations (BDA). (n.d.). Who we are. Retrieved
from https://arbeitgeber.de
Gospel, H. (2005). Markets, firms, and the management of labour in modern Britain.
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