On June 15, 2023, the 28th IUF Congress in Geneva adopted a historic Resolution No. 24 on Fighting for the future of Indigenous and First Nation peoples. The resolution calls for unions to support recognition of the rights of indigenous and First Nation peoples including the restoration of their lands and heritage and the recovery of their language and traditional knowledge. It also calls for protecting and advancing the rights, interests and livelihoods of the indigenous and First Nation workers, farmers and fisherfolk and their communities and ensuring they are included in all aspects of just transitions and climate justice.
Sister Paulomee Mistry, General Secretary of Gujarat Agriculture Labour Union, moved the resolution by highlighting displacement of indigenous peoples from their land, destruction of their livelihood, forced migration and drawing attention to indigenous peoples deep-rooted cultural and traditional ties to nature and symbiotic relationship with forests.
Calling for fight for the future of Indigenous and First Nation peoples:
Paulomee Mistry, General Secretary of Gujarat Agriculture Labour Union addresses the 28th IUF Congress
In the late 1950s roughly 30,000 families were displaced due to the construction of the Rihand dam in the Singrauli region of Central India. Many of them belonged to the Baiga Community, a particularly vulnerable Indigenous group in India. Hardly 20 years later, they would find themselves uprooted again to make way for a super thermal power project. Yet again, a few years later they were forced to move to make way for industry; and then again, a fourth time for more industrial development.
This is the story of India’s indigenous population, the Adivasis or First Inhabitants of the land – regularly displaced and exploited and pushed further into the web of multidimensional poverty in the name of development.
India is a home to the second largest Indigenous population in the world with a population of 104 million and about 702 Indigenous community. The indigenous communities of India are known for their distinct dialect, deep-rooted cultural, and traditions, such as worship nature, and symbiotic relationship with the forests. They had their autonomous sovereign framework prior to the colonial intervention.
Over time they have been alienated from their land with the imposition of unfair land ownership laws and the principle of eminent domain. In addition, there is an ongoing covert attempt to further alienate them from their legacy and rights as first settlers by using a newly coined phrase – “vanvasi” in place of “Adivasi” or First Dwellers. As a result, today, five out of six multidimensional poor people are from Indigenous communities in India.
About 93% of India’s Indigenous people live in rural area, dependent on subsistence agriculture. In addition, they also depend on collection and processing of forest produce and daily-wage labour to survive. There are problems in all three areas: Agriculture is affected by small land holding, poor soil quality, lack of irrigation, low productivity and climate change.
Further, because rights of ownership to Indigenous land in India generally do not exit, Indigenous cultivators, farming on land to which they have no legal title are subject to regular fines, harassment and exploitation by the forest department.
Mega developmental projects like industries, mining, dams, wild life sanctuaries, parks and conservation of nature, etc. have displaced and uprooted millions of indigenous people from their forest. Between 1951 to 1990, more than 8.5 million Indigenous peoples were displaced. Less than a quarter of them were rehabilitated.
Many Indigenous peoples have thus been pushed to seek and supplement their livelihood through wage labour. As per the estimates of the Ministry of Indigenous Welfare, between 2001 and 2011 alone, 3.5 million Indigenous left agriculture to join the informal labour market. Current estimates suggest that one in every five unorganized sector workers in India is Indigenous.
Therefore, I request all brothers and sisters to support the Resolution No. 24 on fighting for the future of indigenous and First Nation peoples
The current situation of women workers in Afghanistan is dire due to the policies enforced by the Taliban since their takeover in August 2021. The Taliban has systematically marginalized women and girls, seeking to erase them from public life. They have implemented bans on education, restricted access to employment, and imposed severe restrictions on women’s freedom and mobility.
One of the first actions taken by the Taliban was the ban on high school education for women and girls in September 2021. Subsequently, they extended the ban to universities, preventing women from pursuing higher education opportunities. This has severely limited the educational prospects and intellectual development of Afghan women.
In December 2022, the Taliban issued a decree banning Afghan women from working for non-governmental organizations. This further hampered aid efforts and hindered the ability of aid workers to provide necessary support to families in need. The ban has created additional challenges in registering and verifying cases of those requiring assistance.
The current situation for women workers in Afghanistan is characterized by significant challenges and limitations. The Taliban’s policies have restricted access to employment opportunities, preventing women from contributing to the workforce. In some regions, women are completely barred from working, depriving them of the ability to pursue their chosen professions or earn a living.
Even in areas where women are allowed to work, they face numerous obstacles and limitations. The Taliban’s extremist and flawed interpretation of Islamic law imposes gender segregation and restricts women’s freedom of movement. These restrictions make it difficult for women to travel to workplaces or engage in certain occupations.
Women spoke with reporters for The Afghan Times about the hardship they face
The economic impact of these restrictions is profound. Many women who were previously employed in sectors such as education, healthcare, and government administration have been forced to cease their work. This loss of income and professional fulfillment has significantly affected their economic empowerment and independence.
Moreover, societal stigma and traditional gender norms persist, further hindering women’s participation in the labor force. Cultural biases and discriminatory practices undermine women’s rights and their ability to pursue employment opportunities.
Despite these challenges, Afghan women workers have demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. Many have sought alternative ways to contribute to their families and communities, such as starting small businesses from home or engaging in informal work arrangements. Their unwavering commitment is a testament to their strength in the face of adversity.
Efforts to improve the situation of women workers in Afghanistan must prioritize gender equality, the rights of women in the workplace, and the elimination of discriminatory practices. Creating safe and inclusive working environments, ensuring access to education and skills training, and fostering economic opportunities are crucial steps toward empowering women and dismantling the barriers they face.
Ultimately the current situation of women workers in Afghanistan is fraught with challenges imposed by the Taliban’s policies. However, the resilience and determination of Afghan women inspire hope for a future where they can fully participate in the workforce and contribute to the development of their country.
Women share their experiences with reporters for The Afghan Times
We have extensively communicated with hundreds of women workers across nearly ten provinces of Afghanistan. Through various means such as phone calls, in-person meetings, messages, and video/audio interviews, we have actively gathered information from women predominantly employed in the hotel and agriculture sectors. Our efforts have focused on documenting and reporting their progress, as well as addressing the challenges they encounter.
The women workers have shared with us their experiences of progress in the face of limited opportunities. They have also discussed the cultural, economic, and educational program challenges they face, along with other difficulties encountered in their work.
Afghan women navigate new employment in hotels and agriculture amid challenges
Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
Amidst the closure of other employment opportunities, a significant number of women in Afghanistan are finding themselves drawn towards the hotel and agriculture sectors. These fields have become preferred career paths for many women, including those with professional backgrounds, non-professional workers, and those who have recently entered these industries.
Despite the daunting circumstances, Afghan women have displayed remarkable resilience and determination, showcasing their skills and expertise in these sectors. With limited options available, the hotel and agriculture industries offer inclusive and supportive work environments, fostering personal and professional growth for women.
Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
The hotel sector presents a range of opportunities, including management, guest services, and culinary arts, allowing women to demonstrate their talents and contribute to the success of the hospitality industry. Similarly, the agriculture sector has seen a surge in female participation, empowering women to make substantial contributions to food production and security. Roles such as farming, livestock management, and agribusiness have provided women with economic independence and a chance to contribute to the nation’s food self-sufficiency goals.
However, the decision to pursue careers in these sectors comes with its own set of challenges. Women face societal biases, gender disparities, and limited access to resources and training opportunities. Nevertheless, their determination to succeed and positively impact their families and communities remains unyielding.
In a remote area of Afghanistan, two women workers tend to their fields. Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
The increasing presence of women in the hotel and agriculture sectors signals a positive shift in Afghan society, reflecting the resilience and ambition of Afghan women. By embracing these career paths, women not only gain financial independence but also break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to the nation’s development.
As Afghanistan undergoes a critical period of transition, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these women. Their stories serve as a testament to the untapped potential within the female workforce and emphasize the importance of creating inclusive and equitable opportunities for all.
With a concerted effort from various stakeholders, including authorities, industry partners, and educational institutions, it is essential to prioritize the provision of education and training programs tailored specifically to the needs of women entering the hotel and agriculture sectors. Bridging the educational gap and offering comprehensive training initiatives will empower these women, unlocking their potential and fostering a more inclusive and prosperous workforce.
By investing in their education and training, Afghanistan can enhance opportunities, promote gender equality, and drive sustainable growth in these crucial sectors. It is through collaborative efforts that we can overcome the challenges faced by women transitioning into the hotel and agriculture industries, ensuring a brighter future for all.
Afghan students’ dreams shattered as Taliban close women’s schools
Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
Zahra Rahimi, a promising school student with hopes of pursuing higher studies in her favorite faculty, finds her dreams shattered as the Taliban regime in Afghanistan closed down women’s schools across the country. The abrupt closure of her school has left Zahra without access to education and uncertain about her future prospects.
Zahra, like many young women in Afghanistan, had aspired to continue her education after completing high school. With a passion for learning and a desire to specialize in her preferred field, she eagerly anticipated the opportunities that awaited her. However, her aspirations were abruptly curtailed by the Taliban’s rise to power.
The new regime’s stringent policies led to the immediate closure of women’s schools, stripping Zahra and countless others of their right to education. The decision has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the educational future of young women, leaving them at a disadvantage in their pursuit of careers and personal development.
Currently, Zahra finds herself working in a sweet bakery, a job that she had taken up out of necessity rather than choice. She explains that she initially aimed to work in the hotel industry, a field she had hoped to study after completing her education. Unfortunately, due to the closure of schools, Zahra was unable to gain the necessary qualifications and knowledge required for employment in her desired profession.
The lack of education in her chosen field has presented Zahra with numerous challenges. Without formal training or credentials, she faces difficulties in finding employment opportunities that align with her skills and aspirations. The sudden shift in her career trajectory has left her feeling unprepared and ill-equipped to navigate the job market.
Zahra’s story is emblematic of the struggles faced by many young women in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s takeover. The closure of women’s schools not only hampers individual growth but also impedes the nation’s progress by denying its women the chance to contribute fully to society.
International organizations, human rights advocates, and concerned individuals worldwide have voiced their deep concern over the Taliban’s actions, urging for the restoration of women’s education and the protection of their rights. They stress that education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all, regardless of gender.
As Zahra and countless others grapple with the challenges brought about by the closure of women’s schools, the hope for a brighter future lies in the collective efforts of the international community to support and empower Afghan women. By working together to promote access to education and advocate for gender equality, we can help individuals like Zahra reclaim their dreams and rebuild a more inclusive society.
Women in the hotel sector are constrained by a lack of education and training
Amid notable advancements in various sectors, women in Afghanistan are grappling with numerous challenges. While agriculture and the hotel industry have gained popularity as sectors for female employment, women face constraints due to a lack of professional education, training, and opportunities for growth.
Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
The emergence of women taking on diverse roles within the hotel industry, such as cooking and more, represents a significant departure from traditional gender norms in Afghanistan. However, despite this encouraging trend, women continue to encounter significant barriers that impede their full integration into the industry. In a comprehensive survey involving hundreds of women, not a single woman was found to have pursued formal education in the hotel sector. Consequently, all female hotel workers in Afghanistan have entered the field without prior educational training or access to relevant programs.
This dearth of educational opportunities translates into a workforce composed entirely of women who lack formal training or exposure to educational programs in the hotel sector. As a result, these women must rely on their inherent skills, resilience, and on-the-job learning to navigate their roles within the industry. Their remarkable achievements in the face of such adversity underscore the immense potential for growth and empowerment that could be realized if women were provided with formal education and training opportunities in the hotel sector.
Addressing this disparity and fostering inclusivity within Afghanistan’s hospitality industry are critical steps towards achieving gender equality and promoting economic development. Encouraging tailored educational initiatives specifically designed for women in the hotel sector is crucial to equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. By dismantling the barriers that hinder women’s entry into the field, the untapped potential of countless aspiring women can be unlocked, contributing to the overall progress of Afghanistan’s economy.
It is imperative for relevant stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, and educational institutions, to collaborate and develop comprehensive programs that provide women with access to quality education and training opportunities in the hotel industry. Furthermore, promoting gender-sensitive policies and initiatives that establish a safe and inclusive work environment for women will be essential in sustaining their progress and inspiring others to follow suit.
As Afghanistan endeavors to build a more inclusive society, addressing the gender disparity in the hospitality sector must take center stage in efforts to empower women and foster economic growth. Offering education and training opportunities will not only enable women to thrive professionally but also contribute to the overall development of the nation. This transformation will turn the hotel sector into a vibrant and diverse industry that embraces and celebrates the talents of all its members.
Taliban extends ban on women’s education to private universities, hindering women’s pursuit of higher studies
In a further blow to women’s educational rights, the Taliban, who previously barred girls from attending public universities, have now extended their ban to private educational institutions. This latest restriction, implemented on January 28, 2023, has created additional obstacles for women in pursuing their desired academic paths.
Masooma, an agricultural science graduate works on her own mushroom farm. Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
Previously, the Taliban’s ban on girls attending public universities had already drawn international condemnation. Now, with the inclusion of private universities, the opportunities for women to access higher education in Afghanistan have become severely limited. This regressive policy not only undermines the fundamental right to education but also restricts the potential growth and development of women in the country.
Interestingly, despite these setbacks, there has been a recent surge in the presence and interest of women in agriculture faculties within Afghan universities. This notable increase in female enrollment in agricultural studies has had a positive impact on Afghanistan’s economy. The significant progress made by professional women in the field of agriculture has captured both domestic and international attention.
Unfortunately, the ban on women’s education has cast a shadow over these promising developments. As progress continues behind closed doors, the potential contributions of Afghan women to the country’s economic growth and prosperity risk being stifled.
The international community remains concerned about the deteriorating state of women’s rights in Afghanistan, as the Taliban’s restrictions further entrench gender inequality. The denial of education not only hampers individual aspirations but also hinders societal progress and inclusivity.
As the world watches Afghanistan navigate this challenging period, the plight of women in pursuing education serves as a stark reminder of the obstacles they face in their quest for personal and professional fulfillment.
Challenges faced by women workers in the IUF Sectors in Afghanistan
Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
Women workers in Afghanistan’s agriculture, hotel, and International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations (IUF) sectors encounter numerous obstacles that hinder their progress and equality. A closer examination reveals that the primary challenges they face include strict limitations imposed by the Taliban, a dearth of educational programs, restricted access to essential resources, and an inadequate work environment.
Firstly, the prevailing restrictions enforced by the Taliban pose a significant barrier for women working in these sectors. The Taliban’s policies often curtail women’s freedoms, restrict their mobility, and undermine their participation in the workforce. These regressive measures impede women’s ability to pursue their chosen occupations, stifling their economic independence and professional growth.
Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
Secondly, a lack of educational programs exacerbates the plight of women workers. Insufficient access to quality education and vocational training further restricts their opportunities for advancement. By investing in robust educational initiatives tailored to the specific needs of women in agriculture, hotels, and the IUF sectors, greater empowerment and skill development can be achieved, enabling women to overcome existing barriers and contribute more effectively to their respective industries.
Unrecognized and invisible, women strive to feed the country. Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
Another critical concern is the limited access to materials necessary for productivity and success. Women workers often face challenges in acquiring essential resources such as tools, machinery, and supplies. This scarcity significantly hampers their ability to perform their tasks efficiently and compete on an equal footing with their male counterparts. Ensuring equitable distribution of resources is crucial to bridging this gap and facilitating gender equality within these sectors.
Furthermore, the absence of a suitable work environment tailored to women’s needs adds to the challenges they encounter. The lack of adequate facilities, such as separate restrooms and nursing areas, compromises their safety, health, and overall well-being. By implementing gender-responsive policies and creating inclusive work environments that accommodate women’s requirements, employers can foster a more supportive atmosphere conducive to their success.
These multifaceted challenges faced by women workers in agriculture, hotels, and the IUF sectors demand immediate attention and targeted interventions. Governments, organizations, and stakeholders must collaborate to address the restrictive policies imposed by the Taliban, prioritize educational programs, enhance access to vital resources, and create gender-responsive work environments. Only through concerted efforts can Afghanistan unlock the full potential of its female workforce, ensuring equal opportunities and fostering sustainable economic growth for all.
Women engaged in farm work. Photo by a reporter for The Afghan Times
পতিতাবৃত্তির” ধারণাটি শোভন কাজের সাথে বেমানান। শোভন কাজ কাজের বর্ণনা নয় – ভাল কাজ বনাম খারাপ কাজ, শোভন বনাম অশোভন। এটি এমন একটি শব্দ যার উদ্দেশ্য হলো শ্রমিকরা যাতে তাদের যৌথ এবং ব্যক্তিগত মানবাধিকার চর্চা করে তা নিশ্চিত করার জন্য প্রয়োজনীয় ব্যাপক এবং সুদূরপ্রসারী পদক্ষেপের একটি বিস্তৃত পরিসর গ্রহণ করা। এটি শ্রমিকদের মানবাধিকার সম্পূর্ণরূপে উপলব্ধি করার পূর্বশর্ত নির্দেশ করে। এটি অর্থ (মজুরি, আয়) সম্পর্কিত নয়, শ্রমিকদের আকাঙ্খা পূরণের বিষয়।
আইএলও অনুসারে: “… শোভন কাজ তাদের কর্মজীবনে মানুষের আকাঙ্খার সমষ্টি। এতে কাজের সুযোগ সম্পৃক্ত রয়েছে যা উৎপাদনশীল এবং ন্যায্য আয়, কর্মক্ষেত্রে নিরাপত্তা এবং পরিবারের জন্য সামাজিক সুরক্ষা প্রদান করে, ব্যক্তিগত উন্নয়ন এবং সামাজিক একীকরণের জন্য আরও ভাল সম্ভাবনা, মানুষের উদ্বেগ প্রকাশের ও সংগঠিত হওয়ার স্বাধীনতা, এবং সিদ্ধান্ত গ্রহণের অংশগ্রহণ যা তাদের জীবনকে এবং সকল নারী ও পুরুষের জন্য সুযোগ এবং চিকিৎসার সমতাকে প্রভাবিত করে।”
এই পূর্বশর্তগুলি মেনে সকল কাজ – বিপজ্জনক, কঠিন, অথবা কম বেতনে নির্বিশেষে – শোভন কাজ হতে পারে। “পতিতাবৃত্তি” – যৌন কর্মে ব্যবহার এবং শোষণের জন্য নারীদের বিক্রি – কাজ হতে পারে না। “পতিতাবৃত্তির” পূর্বশর্ত হল দারিদ্র্য, ঋণ, সামাজিক সুরক্ষার অভাব, নিরাপত্তাহীনতা, প্রান্তিককরণ, সংঘাত এবং যুদ্ধের কারনে বাস্তুচ্যুতি, এবং পাচার। এটাই নারীকে পতিতাবৃত্তিতে বাধ্য করে। এটা বাধ্যতামূলক, এটা পছন্দ নয়।
“পতিতাবৃত্তি” শোভন কাজ হতে পারে না কারণ তথাকথিত “যৌন শিল্পের” প্রয়োজন নারী ও মেয়েদের অর্থনৈতিক, সামাজিক ও শারীরিক নিরাপত্তাহীনতা। একটি “ব্যবসা” হিসাবে মুনাফা করার জন্য এটি অবশ্যই তার সংস্থানগুলি প্রসারিত করার জন্য এই অরক্ষিত অবস্থাকে স্থায়ী করবে। নারী এবং মেয়েদের অর্থনৈতিক, সামাজিক এবং শারীরিক অরক্ষিত অবস্থার অবসান ঘটালে, – যা শোভন কাজের সংজ্ঞার সাথে অবিচ্ছেদ্য – “যৌন শিল্প” নিজেই শেষ হয়ে যাবে।
পতিতাবৃত্তিকে কাজ বলে এই যুক্তি দেওয়া হয় যে এটি অন্য যেকোন ধরনের মজুরি ভিত্তিক কাজের সাথে তুলনীয়: মজুরির বিনিময়ে আপনার শ্রমশক্তি বিক্রি করা। এই মানসিক ও শারীরিক শ্রম-শক্তি (এবং সকল প্রকার কাজ উভয়েরই সমন্বয়), একটি পণ্য বা পরিষেবা উৎপাদন করে। তবুও “পতিতাবৃত্তিতে” যা বিক্রি হয় তা নারীর মানসিক ও শারীরিক শ্রমশক্তি নয়, সে নিজে বিক্রি হয়। সে নিজেই পণ্য। তিনি হলেন সেই পণ্য যা ভোগ করা হয়। এটি শোভন কাজের জন্য সকল পূর্বশর্ত অসম্ভব করে তোলে। কারণ এটা কাজ নয়।
পতিতাবৃত্তি একটি শিল্প কারণ এটি বিশাল অর্থনৈতিক সম্পদ – অপরাধমূলক মুনাফা তৈরি করা, পরিচালনা করার অনুমতি বা উৎসাহিত করে। কিন্তু এই শিল্পে নারীদের শোষণ করে সেই মুনাফা সৃষ্টি করা কর্মসংস্থান নয়। নারীরা কোনো সেবা প্রদানের জন্য নিযুক্ত নয় (একটি মজুরির জন্য তাদের শ্রমশক্তি বিক্রি করে), তারা পণ্য। তাই এটা কর্মসংস্থান নয়, বরং সম্পত্তি হিসাবে, পণ্য হিসাবে তাদের পিতৃতান্ত্রিক আচরণ দ্বারা শক্তিশালী করা নারী ও মেয়েদের দাসত্ব। শোভন কাজের জন্য অবিচ্ছেদ্য অধিকারগুলিতে প্রবেশাধিকার নিশ্চিত করা অসম্ভব কারণ পণ্য – প্রয়োজনীয় সামগ্রী, উৎপন্নদ্রব্য – এর অধিকার নেই। এটি এই অপরাধমূলক এন্টারপ্রাইজের ব্যবসায়িক যুক্তিকে সমর্থন করে।
“যৌন কর্ম” হিসাবে পতিতাবৃত্তির ধারণাটি এই দাবির উপর নির্ভরশীল যে তিনি এই কর্মসংস্থানটি বেছে নিয়েছেন। এটা তার পছন্দ। এটি আমাদের পূর্বে উল্লেখ করা সমস্ত চালক এবং বাধ্যতাকে উপেক্ষা করে। দারিদ্র, ঋণ এবং বাস্তুচ্যুতির কারণে নারী ও মেয়েদের অর্থনৈতিক, সামাজিক ও শারীরিক অনিরাপত্তার ইচ্ছাকৃত এবং পদ্ধতিগত শোষণ, পতিতাবৃত্তিতে বাধ্য করে। এটি পছন্দ নয়।
মৎস্য শিল্পে আধুনিক দাসত্বের উপর আমাদের কাজে আমরা জেলেদের পাচার ও জোরপূর্বক শ্রমের হাত থেকে উদ্ধার করেছি। আমি একবারও কোনো সরকার, কোম্পানি, ইউনিয়ন বা এনজিওকে এমন পরামর্শ দিতে শুনিনি যে তিনি নিজের পছন্দে নৌকায় ছিলেন। তারা স্বীকার করেন যে দারিদ্র্য, ঋণ এবং বাস্তুচ্যুতির কারণে তিনি সেই নৌকায় ছিলেন – তার নিজের কোন পছন্দ ছাড়াই – এবং ভয়ঙ্কর এবং অবমাননাকর আচরণের শিকার হন। কেন এই একই সংস্থাগুলি এটা বলে যে পতিতাবৃত্তি শোষিত নারীদের একটি পছন্দ? এবং ভয়ঙ্কর এবং অপমানজনক আচরণে আমাদের ক্ষোভের কী ঘটেছে?
একমাত্র উপায় যেখানে আমরা সম্ভবত এটিকে একটি পছন্দ হিসাবে বিবেচনা করতে পারি তা হল যদি বলপ্রয়োগের সমস্ত পূর্বশর্ত দূর করা হয়। ওটার অর্থ কি? এর অর্থ হল আমরা প্রথমে দারিদ্র্য, ঋণ, বাস্তুচ্যুত, পাচার,- জোরপূর্বক শ্রম, এবং নারী ও মেয়েদের অনিরাপত্তা দূর করা যা পাচার এবং জোরপূর্বক শ্রমের দিকে নিয়ে যায়। সবার জন্য স্বাস্থ্য, ঋণ থেকে মুক্তি, সবার জন্য সামাজিক সুরক্ষা থাকতে হবে। গত বছরের সেপ্টেম্বরে জাতিসংঘের মহাসচিব যে ব্যাপক সামাজিক সুরক্ষার এবং দারিদ্র্য নির্মূল করার আহ্বান জানিয়েছিলেন তা আমাদের অবশ্যই প্রতিষ্ঠা করতে হবে। আমাদের কর্মসংস্থান সৃষ্টি করতে হবে, জীবন যাপনের জন্য পর্যাপ্ত মজুরির নিশ্চয়তা, এবং জাতিসংঘ মানবাধিকার ঘোষণায় নিশ্চিত করা প্রত্যেকের আবাসন, শিক্ষা, খাদ্য ও পুষ্টির সর্বজনীন মানবাধিকারের প্রবেশাধিকার রয়েছে সেটা নিশ্চিত করা। তবেই তখনই কেবল এই বিতর্ক করা সম্ভব যে পতিতাবৃত্তি নিজের পছন্দে করা হচ্ছে।
তবুও আমরা এই অবস্থা থেকে অনেক দূরে। বিপরীতে, আমরা ক্রমবর্ধমান দারিদ্র্য, ঋণ এবং পরবর্তী দশকে স্থানচ্যুতির মুখোমুখি। এর অর্থ লক্ষ লক্ষ নারী ও মেয়েদের অধিকতর অরক্ষিত অবস্থা। এর অর্থ হল পতিতাবৃত্তিতে নারী ও মেয়েদের শোষণ বৃদ্ধি।
যেহেতু বিশ্বব্যাপী পর্যটন ধীরে ধীরে “আরো ভালোভাবে গড়ে তোলার” প্রতিশ্রæতি দিয়ে পুনরুদ্ধার করছে, সরকার, রিসোর্টের মালিক এবং পর্যটন শিল্পের অপারেটররা আবারও পতিতাবৃত্তিকে উৎসাহিত করবে এবং প্রচার করবে পর্যটকদের আকর্ষণ হিসাবে – বিনোদন হিসাবে। কোন সন্দেহ নেই যে যৌন পর্যটন অনেক দেশে বৈদেশিক মুদ্রা আয় এবং ব্যবসা পুনরুদ্ধারের নিয়ামক হবে। এই যৌন পর্যটনে শোষিত নারী ও মেয়েরা দরিদ্র থাকবে কারণ শিল্পের প্রয়োজন তাদের দরিদ্র হওয়ার জন্য; এটার দরকার তাদের স্থায়ীভাবে অনিরাপদ হওয়া।
মানবাধিকারের সার্বজনীন ঘোষণার অনুচ্ছেদ ২৩ এমন একটি আয় উপার্জনের অধিকারকে নির্দেশ করে যা নিশ্চিত করে “মানব মর্যাদার যোগ্য একটি অস্তিত্ব।” কি হয় যখন সেই উপার্জন জোর করে আপনার মর্যাদা কেড়ে নেয় এবং – আপনাকে পণ্য হিসাবে, সম্পত্তি হিসেবে বিবেচনা করে -আপনার মনুষ্যত্বও কেড়ে নেওয়ার চেষ্টা করে? বেঁচে থাকা ব্যক্তিরা পাচার ও পতিতাবৃত্তি থেকে পালিয়ে তাদের মানবিক মর্যাদা পুনরুদ্ধারের জন্য সাহসের সাথে সংগ্রাম করেছে এবং অন্যদের তা করতে সাহায্য করছে। পতিতাবৃত্তিকে “যৌন কর্ম” বলা সেই সাহসী সংগ্রামের অবমাননা করে এবং কেবল আমাদের নিজস্ব মানবতা এবং মানবিক মর্যাদার উপর সন্দেহ সৃষ্টি করে।
On International Workers’ Day 2023, we celebrate the struggle of independent, democratic trade unions against oppression and exploitation; courageously defending the rights, interests and livelihoods of working people. Only democratic trade unions formed by workers, for workers, and accountable to workers are truly committed to this struggle. They are relentless in the fight for racial, ethnic and gender equality; for economic, social and cultural justice; and for democracy and democratic rights. These are our unions.
Trade unions directly or indirectly controlled by employers, governments or political organizations cannot succeed in defending and advancing the rights, interests and livelihoods of working people. Because their purpose is to control workers – to use workers. It is just another layer of exploitation, another form of injustice.
Trade unions that act as an apparatus of political parties may promise a better future for workers, but they will always betray this promise. They will always subordinate the interests of workers to higher political goals. Goals that sacrifice the rights and well-being of workers and their communities. Goals that serve political elites and their constant infighting.
There are many organizations around the world declaring support for workers – especially workers in poorer countries and impoverished communities of workers in rich countries. No doubt many of these organizations are genuinely committed to economic and social justice, and to democracy and freedom. But all too often this solidarity (expressed politically and financially) becomes a substitute for workers organizing themselves and collectively representing their own interests.
Unless workers organize themselves and build their collective self-confidence, there is a risk that solidarity from these outside organizations will become a substitute for workers’ self-representation. If that happens then this solidarity becomes another form of control over workers – using workers for another purpose.
In recent years we have seen too many instances where international solidarity shifted from genuine solidarity (struggling together with national and racial equality, side by side, in an expression of compassion and a shared sense of justice) to workers in poorer countries being used to win trade union fights in rich countries. Workers in poorer countries are used in geopolitical conflicts, or as leverage in bargaining or international trade deals. Or simply as measured outputs of international aid projects.
We must recall that for many workers around the world, freedom from the inhumanity and brutality of colonialism was achieved less than two generations ago. For indigenous and First Nation workers, colonialism persists today in all its brutality. It is in this context that we are reminded that workers must organize themselves to continue the fight for freedom from all forms of oppression, including any and all expressions of colonialism, neo-colonialism and imperialism. For international solidarity to be a genuine expression of workers across borders struggling together in equality and mutual respect, we must ensure our trade unions are accountable to their members – to workers – and not to the sources of external funding or political support.
On International Workers’ Day 2023, we are reminded of the universal human right of all workers everywhere to form and join trade unions, and that the purpose of these trade unions is to defend and advance the rights and interests of workers. Workers themselves must do this with their own power, not the power borrowed from others.
To declare, “Our union, our power!” takes great courage. This is why on International Workers’ Day 2023 we celebrate the tremendous courage of each and every worker who has formed or joined a trade union. It is the collective expression of this courage through trade unions formed by and for workers that gives us hope in these difficult and challenging times. Internationally we must respond to this courage not with control, use and abuse, but with genuine equality, respect and an unconditional commitment to end all forms of oppression and exploitation. This must be driven by a shared sense of justice, empathy and compassion – not self-interest.
In the face of escalating war and military conflict, the threat of nuclear war, the rise of right-wing extremism, and the resurgence of fascism and militarism, the convergence of genuine independent, democratic trade unions and genuine international solidarity is needed now more than ever.
එස්.ඊ.ඩ්බ්ලිව්.ඒ. විසින් ප්රථම වරට ස්වයං රැකියාලාභී කාන්තා සේවිකාවන්ගේ සංවිධානාත්මක, සාමූහික කේවල් කිරීමේ බලය ස්ථාපිත කරන ලදී. බීඩි (දුම්කොළ) කාන්තා සේවිකාවන් විසින් ගැනුම්කරුවන් විසින් ගෙවන ලද මිල ගණන් සාමූහිකව කේවල් කිරීම එස්.ඊ.ඩ්බ්ලිව්.ඒ. හි ඇති අයි.යූ.එෆ්. හි සාමාජිකත්වය අතර සාර්ථකත්වයට දැවැන්ත උදාහරණයකි. කිරි නිෂ්පාදනයෙ නියුතු කාන්තා කම්කරුවන් සම්බන්ධයෙන් ද එම අත්දැකීම නැවත නැවතත් සිදු විය. වෘත්තීය සමිතියක් ලෙස එස්.ඊ.ඩ්බ්ලිව්.ඒ. හි සාමූහික නියෝජනය සහ ශක්තිය එළවළු වෙළෙන්දන්ට සහ ආහාර අලෙවිකරුවන්ට රජයේ බලධාරීන් සමඟ සාකච්ඡා කිරීමේදී ඔවුන්ගේ අයිතිවාසිකම් සහ අවශ්යතා ආරක්ෂා කර ගැනීමට ද හැකි විය. එලබෙන්ගේ සාරධර්ම, වැඩ සහ ඇය බලාපොරොත්තු වූ ආර්ථික හා සමාජ සාධාරණත්වය තුළින් ගලා එන බලගැන්වීම මෙයයි. එස්.ඊ.ඩ්බ්ලිව්.ඒ. රාෂ්ට්රිය පත්රිකා හි පළමු කලාපයෙහි එලබෙන් ලියා ඇති පරිදි 2016 අප්රේල් මාසයේදී කාන්තාවන් සංවිධානය කිරීම තුළින් “අවශ්ය කටහඬ, දෘශ්යභාවය සහ වලංගුභාවය ලබා ගත හැකිය”.
වීදි වෙළෙන්දන් ලෙස ඔවුන්ගේ අයිතිවාසිකම් පිළිබඳ නීතිමය ආරක්ෂාව දිනා ගැනීමෙන් පසු අහමදාබාද්හි එලබෙන් එළවළු වෙළෙන්දන් සමඟ සිටින ඡායාරූපය. ඡායාරූපය 2010 පෙබරවාරි 25 වන දින ඡායාරූප ශිල්පී ටොම් පීට්රාසික් විසින් ගන්නා ලදී.