Frame policy to stop sexual harassment
Speakers at a workshop yesterday called on the industries to frame a policy to ensure gender equality and stop sexual harassment at workplaces.
Sexual harassment diminishes the productivity of women workers and ultimately affects the export-oriented industries, they said.
The Alliance for Women Workers' Rights (AWRR) in association with International Labour Organisation (ILO), Dhaka organised the sensitisation workshop on 'Gender Equality and Sexual Harassment at Workplace' at the National Press Club in the city.
Concerted efforts by the members of trade unions, employers, representatives of the print and electronic media and law enforcement agencies as well as people from various professions can prevent sexual harassment at all spheres of our society effectively, said Prof Ishrat Shamim, chairperson of AWRR.
Jatiya Sramik Jote President Abdul Kader Hawladar said trade unions can play a pivotal role in achieving gender equality and preventing sexual harassment at workplaces, and assured that the Jatiya Sramik Jote would try to play its role accordingly.
Jatiya Samajtantrik Sramik Front President Jahedul Haque Milu said no nation can be civilised without showing due respect to women.
Speaking as the chief guest, National Coordination Committee for Workers' Education (NCCWE) Chairman Abdul Matin Master said the present government is planning to enact a new law to check sexual harassment at every level.
Other speakers at the workshop pointed out that unequal distribution of wealth put women in vulnerable position to be harassed. It would be possible to ensure good working environment for women through strong national policies, law and international instruments, they added.
AWWR member secretary Shamsun Nahar Aziz and its steering committee member Taleya Rehman also spoke.
Comments