Jan Möhrmann

Although women have proven over the last decades what they are capable of, many people still do not understand what they are worth in this world. They give birth to us, try to make our life as comfortable as they can and what are we doing? Most just do not do anything. They are enjoying what they are getting without a care in this world. Now you are probably asking yourself why? Well obviously because men feel threatened by women.

Nowadays most people own a smartphone. We all benefit from the possibility to communicate even if we are far away from the other person. But have you ever wondered because of whom we have these possibilities? Because of a woman. Hedy Lamarr invented in the 1940s a radio signaling device, because of which we can communicate wirelessly nowadays. This obviously shows what incredible things women are capable of. So the question is why would we hinder them from being their best self?

It would most definitely shock a lot of you when I say that there are still too many countries that do not have a good education system for girls. One of the best examples is Afghanistan. It has been decades since the Taliban era and the system still has not progressed enough. If it develops even the tiniest bit they find an excuse to stop it. One perfect example is the Covid-19 situation, that stopped the whole progress just when it started.

But even if the system would be outrageous, there would still be a lot of families that would never allow their daughters to go to school. The idea that girls are not supposed to go to school and have a decent education is extremely deep in the heads of the population. This is a big problem because why should the system change if the people do not want to change it? And if girls are being told that they cannot study and that they should not do it then they believe it and teach their children the same thing. It is a never-ending cycle.

This problem of ignorance could be solved if the few grades, girls in Afghanistan actually visit would teach them their possibilities and abilities. But the quality is so poor that they do not actually learn anything. So even if they get to do more school, it is not worth their time because it will not teach them enough.

One can say that a lot of people, specifically men, do not want to give young girls the education they need to achieve something because for them the girls would steal the power from them, and they will never allow that. So the only chance these girls have is if women, that have the privilege of having power, fight for them. I am shocked at the low number of people that are actually interested in this massive problem. It makes me sick to my stomach when I hear people say that this is not their problem or that these girls do not want an education. Because they are wrong. Most girls want it but they do not know what it is or how to get it.

And a lot of people have no idea that this is happening. So inform yourself about your education system and ask yourself if it is as excellent as you think. And if not do something about it and tell other people, because we can only make a change if we work together against it.

Source: https://world-education-blog.org/category/conflict/

During his life as a civil rights activist in South Africa, Desmond Tutu (1931-2021) stated, “It means a lot to those who are oppressed to know that they are not alone. Never let anyone tell you that what you are doing is insignificant.” He supported human rights and fought against oppression.

Numerous Bangladeshi people are oppressed in big clothing factories and have to work very hard. Bangladesh is one of the poorest countries worldwide and a hub for clothing manufacturing with the garment industry being the largest contributor to the economy. The country has become an attractive destination for international brands and retailers due to low labor costs and a large pool of skilled workers.

Many people have to work under very unsanitary and unsafe conditions. In addition to low wages and long hours, many workers also face dreadful working conditions, including inadequate ventilation, bad lighting, and insufficient sanitation facilities. These conditions can lead to health problems, such as respiratory issues and skin diseases. Clothing factories in Bangladesh employ millions of workers. Many of them are women as well as children. Having a job is not a matter of course, so workers often feel lucky. Families often need money, and they require their children to work too. Child labor is not uncommon. Many children show their employers incorrect personal information so that they can work.

In 2013, the Rana Plaza disaster, which killed over 1,100 workers in a clothing factory collapse, brought global attention to the atrocious working conditions in the country’s garment industry. Because of that and other cases, the Bangladeshi clothing industry has made efforts to improve working conditions. For example, the Bangladesh Accord on Fire and Building Safety requires factories to undergo safety inspections and implement safety measures. Additionally, the government has raised the minimum wage and taken steps to improve working conditions.

As a result, more needs to be done to ensure that workers are treated fairly and with respect. Companies can take steps to ensure that their supply chains are transparent and responsible. Furthermore, governments can enact and enforce regulations that protect the rights and safety of workers. In my opinion, the political system should take more actions to protect human rights and stop child labor.

Additionally, consumers can play a role in supporting ethical and sustainable brands that prioritize the benefit of workers. We have a responsibility to be aware of the conditions under which our clothes are made. We can reinforce brands that prioritize the well-being of workers and the environment. Fairly produced clothing often has a seal that confirms and guarantees this. Also, we can draw more attention to the situation of many Bangladeshi workers and their oppression. As Desmond Tutu said, it is important that people who are being oppressed do not feel

that they are alone. His quote highlights the importance of solidarity and empathy towards those who are facing oppression. When people are oppressed, they often feel isolated and helpless, as if they are the only ones facing their struggles. By standing in solidarity with them and showing support, we can help them feel seen and heard and remind them that they are not alone in their fight. It is easy to feel discouraged when we are trying to make a difference and facing resistance or obstacles. This quote reminds us that every effort we make, no matter how small it may seem, can have an impact on someone’s life.

Hopefully, in the future many people will raise their voices and promote human rights. As a community we can make a difference for many people, so that they can work and live without oppression and similar issues. Moreover, the industry will improve and buying behavior will change, because this will benefit numerous workers and stop child labor.

If you are interested to help and take part to improve Bangladeshi worker’s life, you can can support the following organization and get involved now:

Bangladesh Labour Foundation: https://www.blfbd.com

International Labour Organization: https://www.ilo.org/dhaka/Areasofwork/workers-and-employersorganizations/lang–en/index.htm

Source: https://youtu.be/W1mvcFuiTts