20/07/2024
@ : Over the past few decades, has emerged as a global hub for the ready-made garment (RMG) industry. The sector has played a pivotal role in transforming the socioeconomic landscape of the country. At the heart of this transformation is the empowerment of women, who make up the vast majority of the RMG workforce. A report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) reveals that, as of 2020, our RMG sector employs around 32 lakh women. This sector's growth has created numerous job opportunities for Bangladeshi women, contributing to their economic empowerment while also playing a vital role in the growth of the economy.
The RMG industry has provided lakhs of , particularly from rural areas, with their first formal employment opportunities. This shift from informal, often agricultural work, to formal employment in garment factories has had profound implications for their economic status and independence.
Earning a regular income has allowed women workers to contribute to their household finances, often making them primary breadwinners. This financial independence has given them decision-making power within their families and communities. These women now have the means to invest in their children's education, healthcare, and better living conditions, leading to a positive cycle of development and improved quality of life.
Employment in the garment sector has also facilitated skills development. Many women enter the industry with little or no formal education. Through on-the-job training and experience, they acquire valuable skills in sewing, quality control, and production management. Some factories also offer literacy programmes and vocational training, further improving their capabilities and future employment prospects.
Beyond economic benefits, the RMG industry has been instrumental in fostering social empowerment of women in Bangladesh. By stepping into the workforce, women have challenged traditional gender roles and norms that often confined them to domestic duties. The presence of women in factories has gradually shifted societal perceptions of women's roles as well. As more women work outside home, the acceptance of women as economic contributors has increased.
Working in the garment industry has also facilitated greater social mobility for women. Employment has enabled women to move from rural areas to urban centres, exposing them to diverse cultures and ideas. This exposure has broadened their horizons, increased their awareness of rights and opportunities, and inspired many to pursue further education and career advancements.
However, this growth is not without challenges. Workers often face issues such as stagnated wages, long working hours, and challenging working conditions. These challenges have also sparked advocacy and efforts to improve labour rights and working conditions in the industry. Indeed, the rise of the garment sector has led to the growth of labour unions and advocacy groups fighting for workers' rights. These organizations have been instrumental in negotiating better wages, improving working conditions, and ensuring compliance with the labour law. Women workers have played a crucial role in these movements, often leading protests and strikes to demand fair treatment.
Read more: https://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/views/rmg-notes/news/how-our-rmg-industry-empowered-women-3657121
Uddin
