Paper short abstract:

This paper will explore the origins, incidence, and impact of women’s casual work in the Bangladesh RMG industry and how casual employment has changed in the aftermath of the 2013 tragedy.

Paper long abstract:

The Readymade garment (RMG) industry plays a key role in Bangladesh's economy, accounting for 80 percent of export earnings and employing 4 million workers, most of whom are women. A significant number of these workers in a seemingly formal industry are actually "casual" workers. There can be advantages to casual work, particularly for women, who can more directly attend to domestic responsibilities and enjoy social freedoms before or during marriage. However, these workers often lack employment contracts, job security, and a voice in improving their wages and advocating for safety improvements. The Rana Plaza tragedy—the worst garment accident in history—captured worldwide attention.   Multinational agreements and labor law amendments were created to improve safety, security, wages, and organizing potential for workers. Thus far change has been inconsistent, with subcontracted factories struggling to keep up with required changes. The 2013 Labour Act made trade union registration easier and stipulated a minimum percentage of women members in union executive committees yet there is evidence that anti-union action continues. This paper will explore the origins, incidence, and impact of women's casual work in the RMG industry and how women's casual employment has changed in the aftermath of the 2013 Rana Plaza tragedy.