Socioeconomic Condition and Challenges of Female Labor Working in Brick Kilns

Abstract

The study explores the plight of women workers working in the brick kilns. It examines the women’s engagement in brick kiln work, their issues, working conditions and proposes the solutions to their problem. For this study, data was collected by using a purposive sampling technique from seven old women (31-50 years) and five young women workers (13-30 years) living in District Vehari, Khanewal, and Machiwal town. A semi-structured interview was conducted for data collection, whereas data was analyzed by using Thematic Analysis. The results revealed that poor socio-economic background, vulnerable due to lack of education and opportunities, family experiences and debt bondage as the main reasons for working in brick kilns. The reported nature of the problems was the physical impact on their health, gender issues, work-related exploitation, and child labor. Regarding the perception of their future lives, hopelessness and unhappiness were reported by the majority, but at the same time, they wanted to change their lives. Respondents demanded financial and structural support as proposed solutions. The government, local civil society, and labor unions should take measures to ensure the implementation of labor laws.