BRAC calls for greater women’s participation in workforce

BRAC has urged stronger measures to boost women's participation in both the formal and informal sectors, highlighting the need for safe working environments, women-friendly policies, and better infrastructure.

BRAC's Improving Skills and Economic Opportunities for Women and Youth in Cox's Bazar (ISEC) project organised the dialogue titled "Increasing Women's Participation in the Formal and Informal Sectors" yesterday.

Speaking at the event, Masuma Billah, head of BRAC's Gender Justice and Diversity Programme, said that nearly half of employed women leave their jobs due to obstacles such as unsafe work conditions and inadequate facilities.

"We must create inclusive workplaces to unlock women's economic potential," he said.

Kazi Roushan Ara, head of BRAC's Skills Development Programme, stressed that implementing women-friendly infrastructure and policies in markets and hospitality will improve women's employment and contribute to the region's economic growth.

"For Cox's Bazar to reach international tourism standards, women's participation in the sector is essential," Nilufa Yasmin Chowdhury, upazila nirbahi officer of Cox's Bazar Sadar.

Md Jasim Uddin, additional superintendent of police, added that the security is key to sustaining the tourism industry -- and that includes ensuring the safety of women workers.

The dialogue, attended by over 50 participants from government, business, and civil society, highlighted the need for public-private cooperation to address workplace challenges, improve sanitary facilities, and introduce gender-sensitive policies.