Exploring the challenges faced by women in the workplace in Sri Lanka, including cultural norms, gender stereotypes, and limited access to education and resources. Highlighting success stories and initiatives for gender equality and empowerment, as well as the barriers and societal pressures hindering women's empowerment in the workplace.
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Quick takeaways
The low participation rate of women in the Sri Lankan workforce is influenced by traditional gender roles, cultural expectations, and the prevalence of sexual harassment.
Efforts are being made in Sri Lanka to empower women economically through initiatives such as the Hooper Market and the Halabaju Food Court, which challenge societal norms and provide a platform for women's independence.
Deep dives
Low Female Participation in Sri Lankan Workforce
Sri Lanka faces a persistently low proportion of women in the workforce, with only about a third of women participating, significantly less than the global average. Traditional gender roles, cultural expectations, and the challenges of sexual harassment contribute to this issue. The culture of impunity surrounding harassment needs to be addressed for women to feel safe and engaged in the labor force. The low female participation rate has a significant impact on the country's economy, but the current government administration is taking steps to encourage women to join the workforce and improve their status.
Challenges Faced by Independent Women
Unmarried women in Sri Lanka often face societal pressure and discrimination. They are confronted with judgments, harassment, verbal abuse, and even threats at both home and work. Women who choose to live independently and pursue their own goals are often seen as defying traditional norms. The pressure from families and communities to conform to a 'typical girl life' often restricts their choices and leads to feelings of isolation and depression. However, some women, like Prameela and Maranti, remain resilient, strongly believing in living life on their own terms.
Initiatives to Empower Women in Sri Lanka
Efforts are being made in Sri Lanka to empower women economically and provide them with opportunities. Initiatives like the Hooper Market and the Halabaju Food Court aim to support women by providing a platform for them to sell their products or work in a safe environment. These initiatives not only contribute to the economic well-being of women but also challenge societal norms and provide a sense of independence. However, cultural inequalities and societal expectations continue to pose challenges, and addressing these requires education, cultural shifts, and support from religious leaders and the community.
After the catastrophic financial crisis, early signs of stability are returning to Sri Lanka. But there’s arguably a more entrenched economic dilemma in the country that had the world’s first female prime minister - the lack of women in work.
With first-hand testimony of harassment and social exclusion, this programme examines the barriers holding women back.
Presenter Laura Heighton-Ginns also visits a women-only employer, successful restaurant chain Hela Bojun, and speaks to presidential advisor Priyanee Wijesekera about the path to cultural change.
Presented and produced by Laura Heighton-Ginns
(Image: A woman working in a government back scheme. Credit: Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture)
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