Staff correspondent | Published: 01:11, May 08,2019
At least 22.8 per cent female workers in different garment factories in Bangladesh were sexually harassed in their workplaces, said a study.
Manusher Jonno Foundation uncovered the study on Tuesday at the National Press Club in Dhaka.
MJF conducted the survey in 22 factories in Dhaka and Chattogram in between March and May 2018.
MJF in cooperation with Karmajibi Nari and Sweden Sverige organised the study finding dissemination on sexual harassment against female garment workers at workplace.
The study showed that sexual abuse in workplaces continued as authorities did not take any action to stop it and accused hardly face trial.Garment workers and trade union leaders said that many victims did not complain to the authorities fearing termination following the incident.
Trade union leader Khairul Mamun Mintu said that only functional trade union could stop sexual harassment and ensure workers’ rights.
Speaking as chief guest member of the parliament Shirin Akhter said that parliament members discussed about sexual harassment after Nusrat killing but they did not take any decision to control it.
She also said that a strong woman movement was needed to stop all types of sexual harassment.
MJF executive director Shaheen Anam said that trade unions could reduce sexual harassment in workplaces.
She urged the government to enact an anti-harassment law following High Court’s order.
Karmajibi Nari president Pratima Paul said that harassment hampered production so the factory owner should take care of the issue for their own interest.
Centre for Policy Dialogue research director Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Fair Wear Foundation Bangladesh representative Bablur Rahman and second secretary of SIDA Ylva Sahlstrand spoke, among others.
One of the researchers Marshia Ahmed Talukder said that out of 22 factories they found anti-harassment committee in only three factories. But none of the factories formed the committees of their own initiative.
Link: NEW AGE Bangladesh | PDF