WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT IN FAST FASHION INDUSTRY: A STUDY CASE OF H&M SUPPORT TOWARDS FEMALE GARMENT WORKERS IN BANGLADESH (2013-2020)

Abstract

Fast fashion is one of the most globalized industries today. To save on manufacturing and labor costs, many fast fashion companies choose direct suppliers in developing countries, one of which is H&M, which has many direct suppliers in Bangladesh. The fast fashion industry is not immune from social issues such as gender inequality among female workers. Being looked down upon by superiors, low pay, an unsafe work environment, and unclear work contracts are still experienced by female workers. This paper will discuss H&M as one of the largest fashion companies with social responsibility, carry out many dialogues and projects that are expected to empower their female workers and the surrounding environment. This research finds the programs that have been implemented are helpful for the women workers, however, as a large company H&M still has demands for their responsibilities in the lives of the female workers.