Workplace equality still beyond the reach of most Lao women
Although more Lao women are employed than ever before, they are more likely to be placed in low productivity and low paid positions with no social protection and basic working rights, according to a recent report from the Department of Skill Development and Employment.
Women have continued to enter the workforce in greater numbers over recent years. However, this progress must not obscure the glaring inequities that still exist in workplaces throughout the country, stated the report.
The department, under the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, sent more than 34,500 female workers to Thailand and Japan in the first six months of last year, which was still not enough to meet demand in those countries.
All the sectors involved should contribute to empowering society and advancing the cause of economic and social development for all by promoting decent work for women, stated the report.
However, improvements in the status of women in labour markets throughout the country have not substantially narrowed gender gaps in the workplace.
Of those in paid employment in Laos, 40 percent are women, according to data from the department.
Remaining outside of the labour force is often not a choice but an imposition. It is likely that most women would select remunerated work outside the home if it became acceptable to do so.
More females are gaining access to education, but equality in education is still far from a reality in some parts of the country, especially in rural areas.
Access to labour markets and decent, productive employment is crucial in the process of creating greater equality between men and women in Laos.
Luang Prabang provincial Labour and Social Welfare Department Director, Mr Somthong Daosongfa, said yesterday younger generations are now less content to work in rice fields and would rather seek more gainful employment in Thailand's factories, construction sites and entertainment venues.
He said a report by the department released last year pointed out that for many women in the province, moving away from vulnerable employment into wage and salary work can be a major step towards economic freedom and self-determination.
The poorer the region, the greater the likelihood that women remain among the ranks of contributing family workers.
“Although the main factor is the lack of jobs at home, migration experts also note that growing materialism among the younger generation is also driving the trend,” Mr Somthong said.
The majority of Lao workers employed abroad crossed the border to Thailand, where there are better economic opportunities.
To reduce unemployment and the risk of human trafficking for women in the province, the department would send around 300 local women to work in Thailand this year, he added.
By Phaisythong Chandara
Vientianetimes
Posted by samakomlao
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