Fair Wear has launched its updated Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining Policy, and an accompanying Guide for Brands .
The updated ‘Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining Policy’ outlines for member brands what compliance on this standard looks like at supplier level and outlines six key steps for brands to take to promote these rights. The Policy states that a brand is only in full compliance with the standard in Fair Wear’s Code of Labour Practice when freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining can be exercised in all facilities in a brand’s supply chain.
The Brand Guide intends to offer practical guidance, outlining in further detail the six key steps that brands can take to set and improve own practices and policies in support of these rights, and how to work with suppliers to promote these rights for their workers. The guide explains the rights of freedom of association and collective bargaining in detail, as well as their importance for promoting social dialogue. It also covers barriers and threats in supply chains and concrete tools for brands to use in their everyday work. Tools include country specific information, a questionnaire for suppliers, templates for non-retaliation letters and sample violations, root causes and suggested brand response.
The Policy and Guide were developed through extensive consultation with stakeholders including trade unions, brands, civil society organisations and representatives of suppliers. Additionally, they are based on research, including the findings from our collaborative project ‘Social Dialogue in the 21st Century’ with Cornell University’s New Conversation’s Project.
Questions on the policy and guide, or if you are interested in collaborating with Fair Wear on this topic can be directed to Tina Rogers, Social Dialogue Coordinator, at [email protected].