The EDP methodology aims to bridge the knowledge gap between informal women workers and those who make decisions that impact their lives, such as government officials, policymakers, researchers, social activists, and anthropologists .
The programme offers a transformative experience rooted in Gandhian philosophies, fostering solidarity and understanding among participants from various backgrounds.
By immersing themselves in the daily lives of poor, working women, participants gain firsthand insights into their struggles and challenges. This intimate exposure encourages reflection and dialogue on societal, economic, and familial issues faced by these women. By the end of the programme, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of informal women workers and potential avenues for collective action to support these women.
Following an orientation session, participants (Guests) are paired with a Host Lady — an informal woman worker — and they spend the rest of the day and night shadowing her throughout her routines at home and at work. They stay with her in her home and engage her in discussion to learn first-hand about her history, struggles and needs.
Guests are asked to take note of their own thoughts during the Exposure, to note how the experience has changed their understanding of the Host, her community, and of poverty in general.
Following the Exposure visit, the Guests come together with leaders of SEWA to reflect on their experiences, to analyse the policies and structures contributing to poverty, and to develop alternate approaches that meet real needs.
With the aim to foster sustainable development and upliftment of informal sectors globally, we organise and provide expert guidance and resources to national and international organisations and professionals focused on empowering informal workers. This includes sharing successful models and practices from various enterprises and collectives, offering insights for replications and adaptation in different countries.
Members Trained in Exposure
of Informal Sector
Members Trained In EDP
Facilitator Training
Trainees out of 43 EDPs
Every organisation and every person has the capacity to make a concrete difference in informal workers lives. Your contribution makes a tangible impact to our cause, providing resources for education, training, and advocacy programs. Join us in our efforts towards building a dignified future for all.
IASEW is the focal point for all of SEWA’s training, capacity building, research and communication efforts.