RISE (Reimagining Industry to Support Equality) is making a big impact in Egypt by improving the rights of female workers in the garment, footwear, and textile industries. The program, launched in 2023 by four global organizations—BSR’s HERproject, GAP Inc’s P.A.C.E., CARE, and Better Work—aims to promote gender equality and create safer, more sustainable working environments for women in the sector.
Women make up the majority of the workforce in Egypt’s garment industry, but they often face discrimination, harassment, and limited career growth. The effects of COVID-19 and economic instability have made their situation even worse. RISE was launched to support these women, addressing both their immediate needs and long-term empowerment.
Empowering Women in Egypt
In 2024, RISE reached nearly 400,000 workers globally, with Egypt being one of the key countries in this effort. The initiative is on track to impact 1.5 million workers by 2026. RISE helps women gain important skills and knowledge, boosting their confidence both at work and in their personal lives.
In Egypt, women who took part in RISE reported a 49% increase in self-belief. Additionally, a 46% decrease in the belief that women’s rights come at the expense of men was noted, signaling positive shifts in attitudes toward gender equality.
Key Programs for Female Workers in Egypt
RISE offers several programs designed to improve the lives of female workers in Egypt’s garment factories. One of the core programs is Financial Health, which helps women improve their financial literacy and plan for the future. By learning to manage their money better, workers gain greater economic independence and resilience. Fatma, a participant in the program, shared that she now saves more money each month, having learned how to distinguish between her needs and wants. She’s now saving $25 a month, up from $10 before, and planning to buy an air conditioner for her home to cope with the heat during the summer.
Another critical program is Respect, which focuses on creating a safer and more equitable work environment. This initiative addresses gender-based violence and harassment, ensuring that women feel respected and supported in their workplaces. By tackling these issues directly, the program helps build a more positive and productive environment for all workers.
The Foundations program is a workplace development initiative that seeks to advance the rights of women workers and increase their agency within the industry. It empowers women by helping them understand and assert their rights, giving them the tools to shape their careers and improve their working conditions.
The Digital Program aims to enhance digital literacy and improve skills in financial management, health, and stress management. This comprehensive approach helps women navigate both their professional and personal lives with more confidence. By building these skills, workers are better equipped to handle challenges in the workplace and beyond.
Benefits for Egyptian Factories
RISE is also benefiting factories in Egypt. A survey of 37 factories across six countries found that companies that joined RISE saw a 30% reduction in turnover rates, higher productivity, and fewer mistakes in work. These improvements highlight that gender equality initiatives help both workers and businesses thrive.
Christine Svarer, Executive Director of RISE, said, “The data shows that businesses in Egypt that implement our programs are seeing real results. Reducing turnover and increasing productivity means that everyone benefits, not just the workers.”
Creating a Fairer and Stronger Garment Industry
RISE’s work in Egypt is part of a broader push to make the garment industry more gender-sensitive and sustainable. By advocating for better labor laws and supporting women’s economic independence, RISE is changing the way businesses operate in Egypt. The program is helping to create a fairer workplace where women can have a more active role in driving success.
Egypt’s involvement in RISE shows the country’s growing focus on improving workers’ rights and gender equality. As more companies adopt these practices, Egypt is setting an example for other countries in the region.
A Future of Sustainable Growth
RISE’s ongoing efforts in Egypt are helping build a more inclusive garment industry. By supporting women and improving working conditions, RISE is creating a foundation for long-term success. As the program grows, Egypt’s garment sector will continue to move towards greater sustainability and fairness for all workers.
Through RISE, Egypt is showing that gender equality and business success can go hand in hand. The program is paving the way for other countries to adopt similar practices, ensuring a better future for workers in the garment, footwear, and textile industries.