Project Synopsis

Oporajita, meaning "undefeated" in Bengali, is a pioneering collective impact initiative designed to empower women garment workers in Bangladesh amid the challenges of climate change, automation, and evolving global trade dynamics in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector. Led by the H&M Foundation and co-funded by entities like COS for specific components, the project addresses gender-based violence (GBV), promotes equitable household relationships, and fosters economic independence through safe spaces, skill development, and entrepreneurial opportunities. At its core, Oporajita establishes Women Friendly Spaces (WFS) in communities like Jirabo, Kashimpur, Goiripur, and Jamirdia in Gazipur and Savar districts. These spaces offer psychosocial counseling, GBV referral services, and skill-building sessions on topics such as stress management, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), and problem-solving. Couples' workshops focus on marital communication, mutual respect, masculinity, and shared decision-making, encouraging behavioral shifts among husbands to support more equal partnerships.