Md. Shawkat Alam Faisal

In Bangladesh's booming economy, bustling markets and expanding industries take center stage. However, one important component of the economic machinery goes virtually unnoticed: unpaid labor undertaken by women. This critical component of household and community functioning has long been neglected and overlooked.

In traditional Bangladeshi society, men are frequently viewed as the primary breadwinners, while women are responsible for managing the home and caring for the family. This division of work, which is strongly ingrained in cultural norms, means that women's contributions, while significant and vital, are not reflected in official economic indicators such as GDP. Despite this, women do a wide range of duties critical to the well-being of their families and the smooth operation of society.

A study conducted by the WBB Trust and comprising eleven NGOs from 10 districts paints a detailed picture of women's daily lives. The study documents the extent of unpaid work performed by women through thorough surveys and interviews with over 600 married people. Women often labor approximately 16 hours per day, juggling domestic tasks, childcare responsibilities, and even small-scale income-generating activities. Cooking, cleaning, caring for children and elderly family members, managing home finances, and participating in agricultural work are among the chores assigned. We are not suggesting that these activities should be paid; rather, that their value should be recognized and acknowledged.

The economic impact of this unpaid labor is tremendous. The study estimates that women's unpaid home work contributes between USD 69.8 billion and USD 91 billion each year. This figure is more than a number; it represents the untapped and underappreciated economic potential of millions of women whose work benefits both family welfare and communal stability. Societies fail to acknowledge the real extent of women's contributions to economic growth and development when this work is not included in economic measures.

Despite the critical nature of their labor, society frequently fails to recognize its significance. Both men and women tend to underestimate women's labor, seeing it as part of their natural role rather than a significant economic contribution. This widespread undervaluation has far-reaching consequences, not only for women's social standing, but also for economic policy and gender equality. Women's unpaid labor is critical to the survival and success of households, but it is economically invisible, resulting in a lack of support and acknowledgment for the women who undertake it.
Recognizing and valuing women's unpaid labor has the potential to significantly transform the economic and social landscapes. If included in national accounts, Bangladesh's GDP may more than double, providing a more complete picture of the country's economic activities. This recognition would raise the prestige of women's contributions, generating more respect and more equitable treatment within families and communities.

Furthermore, recognizing unpaid labor is an important step toward gender equality. It emphasizes the importance of policies that encourage women to work and share domestic obligations. Encouraging males to help with domestic chores and caring can reduce the stress on women and contribute to a more equitable division of labor. Policies like paid family leave, subsidized childcare, and flexible work arrangements can assist women balance their unpaid and paid wok duties.

To address this invisible labor force, there must be a deliberate effort to include the economic worth of unpaid employment in national statistics. This integration would not only provide a more complete picture of economic activity, but it would also highlight the need of social and economic policies that benefit women. Raising awareness is another important component. Educating both men and women on the economic value of unpaid labor has the potential to change society views and promote gender equality. Public campaigns and educational activities can help to change perceptions and promote more equitable distribution of home tasks. Such programs can challenge traditional gender stereotypes while also promoting a more inclusive vision of labor and its importance.

The study's consequences extend beyond Bangladesh. Similar study in other nations can contribute to a better understanding of the essential role that unpaid labor plays in global economies. Nations can aim toward more inclusive and realistic economic models that reflect all of their residents' true contributions by recognising and valuing their efforts. International institutions, like as the United Nations and the International Labour Organization, can play an important role in promoting the identification of unpaid labor and assisting governments in establishing policies to address it. Women's hidden labor is about justice and equity, not just economics.

The time has come for society and policymakers to recognize and reward women's important contributions to unpaid labor. By doing so, Bangladesh can take significant strides towards ender equality and sustainable economic development.

Recognizing women's unpaid labor involves more than just adding numbers to economic reports. It is about respecting the critical job that helps families, communities, and economies. As we move forward, let us ensure that their accomplishments are recognized, acknowledged, and supported, paving the path for a more equitable and prosperous future for everyone. The route forward involves collaborative efforts at all levels of society and governance. Governments must take the lead in including unpaid labor into economic statistics and implementing policies that recognize and support this activity. Educational institutions and media can help to change public perceptions by emphasizing the importance of unpaid labor and encouraging gender equality.

Furthermore, there is a need for community-based projects that empower women and offer them chances for skill development and economic involvement. NGOs and civil society organizations can help these programs by actively engaging with communities to raise awareness and lobby for legislative changes. Empowering women and acknowledging their efforts is a community obligation. It requires the cooperation of governments, the private sector, civil society, and individuals. By working together, we can build a society in which all individuals' contributions are acknowledged and supported, resulting in a more equal and successful future.

The report on unpaid labor in Bangladesh is a timely reminder of the often-overlooked efforts of women. It advocates for a paradigm shift in how we view and value labor, encouraging us to acknowledge the critical job that keeps our societies running. By tackling this issue, we may work toward a future in which gender equality is a reality rather than a goal. In conclusion, women's covert labor is an important part of Bangladesh's economic system. Recognizing and valuing this labor is critical to advancing gender equality and ensuring long-term economic success. The moment has come for society and policymakers to acknowledge and honor women's unpaid labor, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

The writer is an Apprentice Lawyer at the Bangladesh Bar Council.