Recent research from the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) reveals a concerning decline in women’s participation in the country’s garment sector, decreasing from 56 per cent in 2014 to just 53 per cent in 2023. Historically, women constituted over 80 per cent of the workforce in this industry, but the rise of automation and technological advancements has contributed to a significant shift.
Experts attribute this trend to several factors, including the gendered nature of technological advancements, limited opportunities in textile engineering for women, and the increased likelihood of women opting for self-employment or leaving the workforce altogether for family reasons around childbearing age. Dr. Binayak Sen of BIDS emphasizes the need for further research to understand the underlying causes of this trend, citing potential comparisons with similar patterns in neighboring countries like Cambodia and Vietnam.
Taslima Akhtar, chair of the Central Committee of Bangladesh Garments Sramik Sanghati, warns that the reduction of women in the workforce could adversely affect their social status and empowerment. A 2024 study published in the Journal of Business and Management highlights a direct correlation between women’s paid employment and their decision-making power in households.
To address this issue, Akhtar calls for government intervention in the form of training for women on new machinery and the establishment of daycare facilities in factories. However, Dr. Sen questions the extent of government influence in a predominantly private sector, suggesting that more comprehensive policy-level solutions are needed to retain female workers.
The ongoing decline in women’s participation in the RMG sector raises concerns about the future dynamics of the workforce, especially regarding wage equity and labor rights. As the industry evolves, stakeholders must consider the implications of this shift on women’s empowerment and the overall health of the garment sector.
