Working conditions in textile factories (maquilas) are catastrophic: fixed-term contracts, unpaid overtime and chronic health problems are the norm. Women are forced to take pregnancy tests when they are hired or are dismissed if they become pregnant.

The project offers female workers training on labour rights as well as legal and medical advice. Events, forums and campaigns raise awareness among the general public.

In addition, the partner organisation campaigns politically to ensure that companies comply with national legislation and international treaties on the protection of female workers.

£125,000 compensation payments for female workers

With the help of the project's lawyer, 16 cases were concluded in 2022 with a ruling in favour of the employees. Among them was an important precedent: for the first time, the Ministry of Labour issued two expert opinions on occupational diseases suffered by female employees who had already been dismissed, and the companies subsequently paid severance payments. Six female workers received compensation payments totalling US$125,000. Patience is required here: their cases took between two and six years to resolve.

Impressions

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