Who: CNV Internationaal, factory employees, Nike, trade union
In the factory that produces clothing for the well-known sports brand Nike on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, there is literally room for social dialogue. The company union even has its own office, its own ‘trade union space’, in the factory itself.
Over the past few years, the trade union negotiators have brokered agreements with the factory management concerning various labour issues. For example, the employees are now allowed to take a lunch break, the factory grounds contain a school for the factory employees’ children, and a clinic has been built on the grounds. All this in the Cambodian textile industry, which is known for its low salaries, its lack of safety, and its poor working conditions. One important factor was the fact that Nike is a well-known brand that will do anything to prevent damage to its image. In other words, international pressure on famous brands creates room for social dialogue.
Sources:
CNV Internationaal. (2017). The Value of Social Dialogue (pp. 1-40). Utrecht: CNV Internationaal.