BOI Sri Lanka Recognized as Best Practice in Gender Equality by The FDI Center

• The FDI Center released a report: "Advancing Gender Equality in Investment Promotion." 

• It provides practical advice for Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) 

• BOI Sri Lanka was showcased as a case study for best practice 

The FDI Center, a foremost foreign direct investment strategist, has released the report "Advancing Gender Equality in Investment Promotion: A Practical Guide for IPAs." The guide provides effective practical suggestions to IPAs on how to integrate gender equality into their activities. BOI Sri Lanka was identified as a best practice case study under Recommendation 2.4 to promote regular staff training sessions in respect of gender equality and empowerment for women.  

Such initiatives are extended by BOI through welfare and gender equality training workshops, Counsellor Service sessions, as well as providing family planning service facilities throughout its export processing zones. Some of the prominent initiatives are a half-day women's empowerment workshop in the Biyagama Export Processing Zone, and gender-based violence awareness sessions conducted in the Koggala and Seethawaka Export Processing Zones.  

Also, in collaboration with UNFPA, ILO, Better Work Sri Lanka, and private sector partners, BOI is introducing wellbeing centers in the Katunayake EPZ for offering services in mental health, sexual and reproductive health, as well as gender-based violence support. The report of the FDI Center highlights that gender equality not only supports inclusive workplaces but also drives economic growth, innovation, and productivity. Highlighting BOI Sri Lanka, the guide hopes to encourage other IPAs globally to mainstream gender considerations into their strategies and operations.