There is no quick fix when it comes to gender-based violence

The initiative gave women apparel workers the confidence to speak out on GBV in two target factories, but also highlighted that more action was needed

The initiative created opportunities and presented validation to women workers to speak about their experiences regarding subtle forms of gender-based discrimination, GBV and SH. About 80% of the factory workers in the endline survey could recognise at least three forms of GBV and potential solutions, while 98% of women workers in the endline survey were confident in reporting SH instances at the factory floor. A total of 89% felt that there would be a resolution to complaints raised

While enhanced awareness of GBV led to increased confidence workers in dealing with the situation in terms of reporting to formal mechanisms, deep-rooted mindsets remained unchanged 

Sensitisation approaches for women workers on all forms of violence and gender-based discrimination through Streelink melas (carnivals on Sundays once every two months) using edutainment tools was effective at spreading awareness in an easy yet comprehensive way. However, the 21 Streelink melas for 5,432 workers including 450 supervisors, were ultimately inadequate in building agency as the women workers participated only once. In addition, there was no reported evidence of collective action at the factory and community levels 

Training held for factory personnel was relevant but insufficient to influence mindsets of factory HR teams. The initiative successfully established a new Policy on Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) policy for the two factories and introduced the policy to management for enforcement, leading to the formation of the Internal Committee (IC) on SH in both the factories. Anecdotal evidence reported significant, positive differences in the factory floor environment in the last two to three years

The initiative had mixed results at community level and in terms of promoting advocacy with industry associations

Effective communication methods were employed for community mobilisation to raise awareness on GBV through pop culture and street plays, however feedback from participants indicated the need for sustained engagement to build an efficient response and support system to prevent gender-based violence within communities

There was no positive outcome regarding advocacy with industry associations as had been intended, to increase awareness and action by factory management and workforce on GBV and SH@WP. However, the initiative contributed to the addition of domestic violence and impact on workplace harassment at an international level within ILO’s Violence and Harassment Convention 2019 (C190)