Background

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Gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) in global supply chains remains one of the most prevalent human rights violations and risks in the garment and footwear sector. In recent years, GBVH in the garment industry has received increased recognition amid growing awareness of the problem as a broader societal issue. GBVH is rooted in unequal gender norms and exacerbated by deep-rooted factors that increase women’s risk while also preventing reporting, prosecution, remediation and accountability.

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This session, framed as a case study, aims to bring the issue to life through the voices and experiences of women workers. Drawing on stories from participants in programs such as the RISE Respect workplace program, the discussion will spotlight the everyday challenges women face at work and the collaborative solutions existing to address GBVH.

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Key Objectives

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• Center women workers' experiences by sharing stories that illustrate the everyday realities of GBVH in the garment and footwear sector.

• Highlight existing solutions by showcasing how programs like the RISE Respect workplace program are supporting prevention, response, and remediation.

• Inspire action across the garment value chain and beyond by encouraging stakeholders to adopt and scale effective strategies to identify GBVH risks, strengthen prevention efforts, and ensure accountability and remedy for survivors

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Guiding Questions

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• What do women workers’ stories reveal about the underlying drivers and everyday manifestations of GBVH in the garment and footwear sector?

• What lessons can be drawn from existing initiatives such as the RISE Respect workplace program about what works to prevent GBVH and support survivors?

•  How can different actors across the garment value chain (brands, suppliers, civil society, workers representatives) collaborate to adopt survivor-centered approaches to address GBVH systemically?

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Format

• This 30-minute session will use a case study format to share real-life stories from women workers who have participated in the RISE Respect workplace program. Through a brief storytelling segment followed by guided reflection, participants will explore the systemic nature of GBVH, examine practical responses, and consider how different stakeholders can take action across the value chain.​

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Session Partners