Human rights campaign group, Human Rights Watch (HRW) have investigated the precarious labour under taken by Cambodian workers, who have been working over-time. The Cambodian government need to intervene in what seems to be an extremely sad and distressing case. They have failed to protect the vulnerable females at risk. Injustices against these garment workers include discrimination against pregnant workers and going against union-practices.
Among the various international apparel brands who are involved in this heinous act are M&S, H&M and GAP. These are all retailers I used to have good and respectable thoughts and admiration for, but now I will have anxiety whenever I see these stores. To know that the clothes that I will wear and show off, get compliments on and feel comfortable in are a product of unfair and manipulated labour makes me feel uncomfortable and uneasy. Despite what industry someone works in, they should be treated with respect and consideration for illnesses and their welfare, especially if they are working long hours like these garment workers!
Aruna Kashyap, a senior women's researcher was reported saying, " The Camodian government should take swift measures to reverse its terrible record of enforcing its laws and protect workers from abuse. These global apparel brands are household names. They have a lot of leverage, and can and should do more to ensure their contracts with garment factories are not contributing to labour rights abuses."
Shocking findings include the fact that the Cambodian law requires that working overtime should be voluntary, however this law has failed to be met by the clothing industry. Workers interviewed by the HRW have retold stories about how when refusing overtime shifts, they have been blackmailed into possibly being dismissed from work or lower wages. What is particularly disturbing is that some workers claimed about not being able to even take short-breaks, have their lunch or go to bathroom, as they would face extreme pressure by their bosses. This is horrendous and alarming, all the brands included in these unjust findings should re-visit the company's mission and values and campaign to put an end to these horrible conditions, who are only trying to make ends meet.
HRW actually got in touch with six brands, some of them are: ADIDAS,GAP and H&M, who apparently discussed serious efforts in to eradicate the problems found. Lets hope they don't just discuss but start doing too, and implementing some positive change, so that these working conditions cease to exist.
Now that this illegal and immoral news is information to the public, these big household names need to stop holding fancy meetings about their advertising and social media strategies and really sit down and have a think about what they are representing.
A message to all the international apparel brands worldwide : People are at the forefront of the success of your business, whether they are backstage or in the limelight. For this reason, really invest in the well being of your workforce, because this will ultimately influence the efforts and hard work showcased in your products. People matter, just like brands do. Just in case you forgot!