Organising as a catalyst for promoting decent work in the informal economy in South Asia

Abstract:
By analysing measurable indicators of decent work in the informal economy, this study argues that organising is a critical entry point towards achieving decent work. The study looks at three case studies of unorganized informal workers, migrant workers in agriculture and ship-breaking in India; ready-made garment workers in Bangladesh; and workers in private sector in Sri Lanka. The existing decent work deficits in all the case studies are analysed, and organising is recommended as a way of addressing these problems. Moreover, it is argued that organising at grassroots level is the first step towards social dialogue and a potential policy framework that enhances decent work in the informal economy.