Summary of the online seminar "Amplifying Women's Representation, Voice and Leadership in the Garment Sector"

Though women account for the majority of the garment sector workforce in most Asian countries, women are typically found in low-wage jobs in the lower tiers of the supply chain, and remain largely underrepresented in social dialogue and collective bargaining, policy dialogue and managerial structures. This is partially driven by stereotypes of women’s aspirations, preferences, and capabilities, as well as social and familial expectations for women to take on the bulk of care work within the home. While women are the majority in this sector, men dominate the leadership and representation in tripartite and bipartite dialogue and policy-making fora. This has often resulted in policy responses that are not sensitive to gender. There is ample evidence of the positive spill over effects of having more women - alongside men - in leadership roles. This webinar will provide attendees with the opportunity to become familiar with the key concepts related to women’s voice, representation and leadership. At the end of the webinar, attendees will have a better understanding of the evidence in support of gender-diversity in the garment sector. This will include statistics of women in leadership, the benefits of gender balanced leadership, and examples of good and promising practice.