Violence and harassment in the world of work remains a widespread issue. Violations of workers’ rights are present in all countries, across sectors, occupations and working arrangements. Given its global prevalence, it comes as no surprise that violence and harassment are found throughout the garment industry.
The garment industry provides employment to an estimated 75 million people from the global south. About 75% of these workers are women, often in lower paid positions. Women in particular often have limited bargaining power and are disproportionately affected by violence and harassment, including sexual harassment.
Ending violence and harassment against women in the garment sector requires a multi-stakeholder and multi-dimensional approach that addresses legal, institutional, workplace and societal dynamics. At Fair Wear, we have developed supplier guidance on addressing violence and harassment at the factory level. This guideline is based on OECD Guidelines, Fair Wear Foundation’s Code of Labour Practices and is designed to support member suppliers together with brands address and remediate violence and harassment at the factory level. The document represents minimum standards for suppliers to use to address violence and harassment in their workplace. It should be adapted to incorporate national legislation and policies.
The aim of the supplier guidance on addressing violence and harassment is –
SIX STEPS TO ADDRESS VIOLENCE AND HARASSMENT IN FACTORIES
In each step and where possible, engage with brands, factory management, local government, and workers representatives and disseminate information about the progress made.
To read the supplier guidance document, click here.
For more guidance on the national level, refer to the Fair Wear Gender Country Fact Sheets.