News

The program was conducted by UNI BLC and its Women’s Committee headed by Taslima Akter Lina, one of UNI Apro Women’s Committee members representing South Asia. Lina shared with participants on what she learnt from the annual Women Committee Meeting held in Melbourne last March.



Yoko Ogawa, Director for UNI Apro Women’s Activities, encouraged participants to voice their concerns, views and suggestions to safeguard equality in Bangladesh. This would also facilitate a networking platform amongst women participants. Yoko also briefed participants on equality efforts such as the 40for40 campaign and website, and the structures within UNI.



The women participants were addressed on their rights and national labor laws in Bangladesh as well as international standards set by the ILO especially in terms of ensuring gender equality. They were then split into smaller groups to discuss barriers / challenges for women to take higher responsibilities in union, in workplaces and in society.



Apart from the lack of confidence, education, information, and communication skill which might be acquired through their own efforts and if opportunities are present, many women raised traditional, religious, and socially-rooted practices as barriers that do not welcome them into higher leadership roles. The lack of support from supervisors, leaders and families, including husband and parent-in-laws, cannot be overcome just by women’s efforts and commitment.



On the qualities that an ideal leader should have, participants listed the willingness to listen and take others’ opinions, the ability to unify diverse people, to set realistic goals, practicality, and honesty as important merits.



All participants belonged to either ‘Report’, ‘Program’ or ‘Social’ committees to help in the smooth running of the course. Social committee led energizers and cultural program during the course to make a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.



The three sector groups also presented on their small projects that aims to organize more women members into their sectors.



UNI BLC Women Committee members will closely monitor the progress of each group and will consult them if necessary. All participants expressed the need for more training programs to empower women, especially to train women trainers so that they will be able to run courses locally.



Rajendra Acharya, Director for UNI Apro Trade Union Development, encouraged the women to be united so that more women can be organized to support women leaders in overcoming their challenges.