Publications of the FoundationWorking situation of women home-based industrial workers in Bangladesh
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  • Home-based work is a complex, often unseen global phenomenon. In Bangladesh, this hidden labour force, primarily women, plays a vital role in industries like textiles and garments. A recent study sheds light on their socio-economic conditions, working environments, and the challenges they face, offering critical insights into their lives. The research surveyed 400 home-based women workers across Dhaka, revealing diverse socio-demographic profiles, income disparities, and health risks stemming from poor working conditions. Many transitioned to home-based work for flexibility but face exploitation, lack of formal recognition, and irregular incomes. Tasks like embroidery, tailoring, and fabric handling are common, with most workers earning less than BDT 3,000 per month. Barriers to formal sector inclusion, such as subcontracting and unsafe conditions, perpetuate their exclusion. However, formalising their work could empower these women economically, granting them access to stable incomes, legal protections, and benefits like health insurance. This research calls for urgent action from stakeholders to address policy gaps and improve labour rights, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable future for home-based workers in Bangladesh.