The Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka (IPS) is hosting a National Policy Conference on Women’s Access to Decent Work in Sri Lanka on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at the Dr Saman Kelegama Auditorium, IPS. This conference aims to facilitate a policy discussion among relevant stakeholders and policymakers to improve women’s access to decent work, recognising its critical role in advancing gender equity and economic growth.
The concept of “decent work” goes beyond mere employment and includes a comprehensive evaluation of job quality. It emphasises factors such as employment opportunities, social protection, workers’ rights, and social dialogue. These factors align with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) eight, which underscores the importance of ensuring decent work for all. Sri Lanka, with its long-standing issue of low female labour force participation, faces specific challenges, which necessitate tailored strategies for promoting decent work.
This national conference will provide a platform for diverse stakeholders to deliberate on strategies aimed at enhancing decent work opportunities for women in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the event will provide an opportunity to disseminate the findings of a recent study conducted by IPS, titled “Women’s Access to Decent Work in Sri Lanka: Addressing Context-Specific Barriers.” This study highlights that Sri Lankan women, particularly those in the estate and rural sectors and those with lower skills and education levels, face the most challenges in accessing quality jobs.