Empowering Women Migrants Through Coalition-Based Activism

In Bangladesh, addressing gender-based violence among female labor migrants requires innovative and collaborative approaches. As part of the Promoting Effective, Responsive, and Inclusive Governance (PERI) Program, the Coalition for Fairer Labour Migration organized a series of impactful initiatives during the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, held from November 25 to December 10, 2024. PERI is implemented by The Asia Foundation with support from the UK Government. 

A cornerstone of this effort was the Refugee and Migratory Movements Research Unit’s skills development training, which focused on equipping 51 outbound women migrant workers in Narsingdi with practical tools to recognize and prevent GBV. Participants learned how to protect their rights locally and internationally and gained confidence in navigating complex migration systems. 

Young Power in Social Action expanded this movement by targeting youth and students through workshops, seminars, and community outreach programs. The activities highlighted the need to implement the high court’s policy on preventing harassment in workplaces and schools, with discussions on promoting safety and equity. 

Building on this, the Films for Peace Foundation organized an Orange Day celebration, symbolizing a violence-free future for women and girls. With orange as the color of hope and determination, the event resonated as a call to end GBV globally. 

To engage families of female migrants, the coalition also held a special dialogue highlighting women’s rights and protection. The meeting encouraged families to share experiences and ideas, fostering collective action toward creating safer environments for women and girls. Altogether, these efforts demonstrate how coalition-based activism can drive meaningful change for women across Bangladesh and beyond.