Conversations with Unionized Female Textile Workers in Türkiye: Lingering Struggles with Gender Norms, Wage Disparities and Discrimination

The textile sector involves some of the most intensive, fast-paced and repetitive work amongst all fabricating sectors, and low wage-earning women employed by the garment industry are the subject of current labour discourse in Türkiye. This study explores the personal experiences of women working in Turkish textile production by interrogating how women see themselves within the labour force, and how they construct a framework for identity and recognition as union members working alongside men. The special access and cooperation granted by textile union for this study makes it unique. A qualitative research method and focus group interviews were used to investigate women’s work experiences. In total, three separate focus group interviews were conducted with 24 women, providing personal stories that illuminate problems faced by thousands of their co-workers. The study concludes that women's experiences in the textile sector continue to be shaped within the framework of gender norms, low wages, and difficult working conditions. Feelings of ambivalence from management, the hardships of the work, and the unspoken pressure to fulfill the requirements of caregiver roles while also working this sector are also discussed. The interviews provide further insight on women’s views regarding the glass ceiling, pay gaps, patriarchal roles, and the barriers they face in being part of decision-making processes in the workplace. Key words: gender, female workers, textile sector, labour union