The Paradox of Globalization: Exploitation or Empowerment of Women?

This study examines the impact of globalization on women's empowerment in emerging markets, focusing on whether it leads to empowerment or exploitation. Globalization is often credited with raising incomes in developing economies, democratizing institutions, fostering cultural diversity, and increasing employment opportunities for women. However, when local cultural contexts are ignored, globalization can have negative consequences, making it a complex and paradoxical phenomenon. This paradox involves both the empowerment and exploitation of women.

We hypothesize that gender equality has the potential to improve women's conditions, expand career opportunities, and enhance participation in democratic decision-making, particularly in addressing workplace issues. To explore this, we conducted a multiple case study of Bangladesh's garment industry, using qualitative research and structured interviews with 39 female workers across six factories. A grounded theory approach was applied to analyze the data.

The findings reveal that cultural traditions and contextual factors can negatively affect women's working conditions. Many workers in this study expressed dissatisfaction with their wages, lack of control over their earnings, and limited opportunities for career advancement or decision-making. Yet, despite these challenges, the paradox of globalization emerges women are still able to support their families, access healthier food, and utilize workplace skills to pursue entrepreneurial activities.

The study concludes that when institutional and social factors are addressed, globalization can economically empower women and improve decision-making within factories. However, it also highlights the risk of economic and cultural exploitation if these conditions are neglected.