Bangladeshi and Pakistani women in good work

Despite rising educational attainment, Bangladeshi and Pakistani women continue to be among the most underrepresented groups in London’s workforce. In 2022, nearly half (48.1%) were economically inactive, and those who were in work faced the highest gender pay gaps of any ethnic group - 60% for Pakistani women and 50% for Bangladeshi women. 

This GLA summary report shines a spotlight on the barriers these women face in accessing and progressing in “good work”: secure, fairly paid jobs with opportunities for development. It draws on participatory research commissioned by the Workforce Integration Network (WIN) and conducted by the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR), with seven community researchers. 

The findings uncover the impact of racism, discrimination, limited access to networks and training, and exclusionary workplace cultures. The report also reveals the resilience and aspirations of Bangladeshi and Pakistani women, and the urgent need for structural change. 

To accompany the summary report, the GLA and NIESR have collaboratively developed a policy briefing that presents a practical set of recommendations, to inform national strategies to reduce economic inactivity. These proposals offer a vital opportunity to boost employment for Bangladeshi and Pakistani women and drive a more inclusive economy in London.