There are 1.8 million workers in the brick kiln industry in Pakistan, those that work in the kilns are often the most vulnerable and marginalised in the region, they are subject to inhuman working conditions and can be paid as little as 25p for a days work; often forcing them take loans from their employers knowing they have little hope of ever repaying them. Women brick kiln workers often also suffer from sexual harassment and receive lower pay than men, yet the same dangerous working conditions. Although laws exist to protect these workers implementation is poor; they are rarely enforced and workers fail to exercise their rights, report violations or negotiate effectively with employers.
Women Helping Women’s aim is to work in a peaceful but assertive way, promoting women workers rights in this repressive industry.
Several successes have been achieved although it has become apparent that the women need a deeper understanding of their rights and a better appreciation of the wider context in which they are operating if further success is to be achieved.
In response to this, Women Helping Women, in partnership with Feed the Minds, is providing ‘Democracy Schools’ to educate women on human rights, the history of democracy, the challenges faced by women workers and the condition of workers’ rights in Pakistan. In addition a number of community-lead theatre performances and a documentary are being produced to mobilise communities and promote awareness around the issues faced by the brick kiln workers.
Our main aims are to increase awareness of workers rights and of democratic principles and values, to improve the woman’s ability to negotiate more effectively for fair wages and hours and, in the long term, to significantly improve working conditions with a specific focus on reducing discrimination and sexual harassment. With your help, we can make a difference.
