International Women’s Day 2022: Why Fashion is Women’s Work
The garment and textiles industry in Asia is a highly feminized sector. In Bangladesh, women workers make up 61% of the factory workforce. In Vietnam and Cambodia the figure is 74% and 80% (respectively), while in Myanmar it's higher still at 86%!
As a result, it is women workers -most of whom are located in developing countries- who typically bear the biggest burden of the inequalities and injustices of the global fashion supply chain. More so than their male counterparts, women are more likely to be underpaid, overworked, mistreated, harassed and abused in their place of work. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has both underscored and further exacerbated many of these issues.
Whilst fully overcoming these challenges in the sector will not happen overnight, it is important highlight and recognize the programs and initiatives that are already making a difference, through advocacy and action to empower women, tackle workplace violence and harassment, and close systemic gender gaps that pervade all corners of the global garment sector.
On the occasion of International Women's Day 2022 (8th March), the Asia Garment Hub is shining a light on the initiatives, events and campaigns that are helping to move the needle on gender equality and decent work in Asia, with relevance for all stakeholders -from brands to factories, policymakers to worker representatives.
Want to connect with organizations working to empower women workers, and see what good practices they've developed?
Did you know that the Asia Garment Hub has a dedicated section on Gender? Click HERE to see all resources, news, events and multimedia content on Gender.