Realising the importance of redefining gender, equality, and inclusivity in South Asia necessitates a holistic approach that acknowledges and uplifts all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, SARTUC organised a seminar, in collaboration with South Asia Gender Platform (SAGP) and Mondiaal FNV, “Redefining Gender, Equality, and Inclusivity - South Asian Perspectives on Gender and Rights” at Kathmandu, Nepal on 15-18 February 2024. By addressing historical legacies, confronting current challenges, and integrating the LGBTQ+ community into the conversation, South Asian societies can work towards creating a more equitable and harmonious future for all. 21 participants, among which 13 women, 5 men and 3 others (LGBTIQ+ Community) attended the Seminar on Equal Opportunities for All, to launch the Gender Equality Campaigns in Kathmandu, Nepal. The seminar was organised to coincide with the World Social Forum, which was held in Kathmandu from 15 – 19 February 2024. A total of 21 participants from Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka participated in the seminar. Importantly, the SARTUC Women’s Committee members were engaged and involved in the seminar and campaign where they discussed redefining gender, equality, and inclusivity from the perspective of workers in the world of work.
Seminar on Equal Opportunities for All and the Launch of Gender Equality Campaigns in Kathmandu provided a favourable space for trade unions to explore and discuss the issues of gender, equality, and inclusivity from the South Asian perspectives. The seminar aimed to shed light on gender and rights in the context of South Asian countries. Through the campaigns, interactions, and inclusive dialogue from South Asian gender experts and trade union women leaders, we aim to redefine gender, equality, and inclusivity with context to the region. Importantly, the seminar and campaign launching will uphold gender rights at the workplaces in the region.
OBJECTIVES OF THE SEMINAR AND CAMPAIGN LAUNCH
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the existing gender disparities in South Asian countries, considering education, health, and economic opportunities for women and the LGBTQI+ community.
- To campaign for diversifying leadership roles in trade unions to create a positive impact on women's leadership and eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace.
- To explore the strategies to promote gender, equality, and inclusivity in trade union movements as well as in the world of work.
- To establish a roadmap and formulate recommendations and actionable steps to redefine gender, equality, and inclusivity in the region.