GCN launched to tackle workplace inequality in private sector

The Gender Champions Network (GCN), an initiative of SAJIDA Foundation supported by the Gates Foundation, was officially launched on Sunday at Sheraton, Dhaka, through an event titled "Transforming Workplaces: Driving Equity and Empowering Action".

The programme brought together business leaders, development practitioners, researchers, academicians and corporate professionals to discuss how Bangladesh's private sector can become more inclusive and equitable. Representatives from the Gates Foundation also attended the event.

A key highlight of the launch was the presentation of findings from a new study titled "Gender at Work: A Study of Selected Private Sector Firms in Bangladesh". The research examined gender equity practices in industries including manufacturing, health, finance, pharmaceuticals, real estate and leather.

Using a mixed-method and multi-perspective approach, the study focused on six areas: gender representation, pay equity, fair recruitment and promotion, career advancement and mentorship, workplace culture and protections, and access to sexual and reproductive health and rights services.