To provide guidance to its members, Fair Wear has drawn a document on the risks related to Turkish garment factories employing Syrian refugees.
Fair Wear is aware that currently large numbers of Syrian refugees are being employed in the garment industry in Turkey, often in conditions that would violate elements of the Code of Labour Practices.
Dangerous conditions
Risks relate to the employment of Syrian refugee children, discrimination against undocumented Syrian refugees and unauthorised subcontractors employing large numbers of refugees, often working in unhealthy and dangerous conditions.
The guidance document does not only address the risks but also offers preventive steps that can be taken by Fair Wear affiliates sourcing from Turkish suppliers, and guidance for remediating the unfair treatment of Syrian workers.
Earn an income
Since the start of fighting in Syria in 2011, it is estimated that 1.6 million refugees have escaped to Turkey. As the number of refugees increases, and the length of their stay in Turkey grows, refugees are understandably looking for ways to earn an income.
For more information on the risks related to Turkish garment factories employing Syrian refugees, read the Fair Wear Guidance document here.