Last weekend’s Observer published a story about a recent human rights tribunal in Bangalore, India. The article gave first-hand accounts from workers in India’s garment sector, which were shared as evidence during the tribunal’s proceedings. These included stories of low wages, long working hours, and of physical and verbal abuse.
We welcome any report that amplifies the voices of workers, whether those stories are positive, or challenging and uncomfortable. These serve to shine a light on working conditions around the world, and give Western audiences an opportunity to connect with workers’ rights issues. They prompt thought and discussion about how we all interact with global trade, and its realities.
Our Base Code of labour practice enshrines a number of workers’ rights, including living wages, working hours, and no harsh or inhumane treatment. These are fundamental rights that must be respected and protected.
The Observer’s story, and others like it, lay down a challenge to companies sourcing from India to engage fully with their supply chains, and listen to the voices of workers.
This is a challenge that ETI and our members take forward, as we build upon our work in India, and implement new programmes. This work brings together the combined strength of companies, trade unions and NGOs to understand and address the root causes of workers’ rights issues. Delivering positive, long-term and sustained change for Indian workers is at the very heart of this.