Report on exploitation of women workers and the LGBTIQ+ Community released

Women employees working through manpower agencies in Sri Lanka are facing deeply troubling conditions, a research report has revealed.

They endure inadequate wages, lack of job security, poor access to essential facilities, and, most critically, are lost of a voice to advocate for their rights  the report said.

These harsh realities were brought to light at an event held today, highlighting the ongoing struggles these women face.

A research report on the challenges faced by women workers in the Free Trade Zone and the LGBTIQ+ community in Sri Lanka, were revealed at a press conference to discuss their issues  today in Colombo.

The event was organized by Stand Up Movement Lanka (SUML).

The Executive Director of , Ashila Dandeniya, spoke at the event, highlighting that most women from rural areas, who come to work in Free Trade Zones due to financial hardship, endure severe challenges and find themselves in desperate conditions, often without any means to advocate for their rights.

At the event, it was highlighted that workers in Free Trade Zones, particularly those recruited through manpower agencies and members of the LGBTIQ+ community, face a range of challenges in the workplace. These include low wages, unsafe working conditions, and the suppression of labor unions, all of which continue to plague the industry.

Ms. Nilani (Pooja), a Free Trade Zone worker, Ms. Piumi, employed through a manpower agency, and Mr. Sihina Thenuwara and Vishnu, representing the LGBTIQ+ community, took the stage to share their  personal stories with the public."

SUML presented their suggestions to address these issues in their report, focusing primarily on improving employee morale, changing toxic work environments, enhancing unhealthy working conditions, creating a work-life balance, reducing long working hours, and organizing training workshops and awareness programs to eliminate communication barriers.

(By Ishu Bandara)