Towards Positive Change, A Case of the Textile and Garment Industry Bangladesh

Abstract: In 2013, the Rana Plaza Complex in Bangladesh collapsed claiming the lives of 1134 RMGworkers. This event ignited foreign stakeholders applying pressure on factories within the sectorto uphold adequete safety measures and address concerns over labour rights. The ILO and EUhave since conducted surveys and forwarded recommendations toward what they considerpositive change, in a comittment to improve labour rights and factory safety. (Ashraf & Prentice2019) Prior to this devasting event, women’s rights organisations/movements have and continueto actively challenge cultural and traditional norms in an effort to address issues of social injusticewithin the sector and in society in general. These grievances range from harassment, long hours,fairer wage distribution and equal rights. Currently, 86% of the workforce in Bangladesh workswithin the industry, comprising mostly of women and (children) and is its largest exporter toforeign cloths brands in the West. An estimated 4 million people contribute to this labour forceand since the emergence of the industry in the 1980’s, women have faced various disparities.Women workers have faced conditions which have subjected her to unequal premises and beingless privilaged. An essential part of this inquiry is discussing conceptions of womanhood,empowerment and of gender and class.This DP examines how the Accord, OWDEB and NGWF engage, address and advocate change,together with their representatives. All three stakeholders are striving for positive change withinthe sector, each with a specific focus on areas of concern. This inquiry foremost examines thepush for change.