Corporate Social Responsibility in the Sportswear Sector

FES in cooperation with ILO and the International Textile, Garment and Leather Workers’ Federation (ITGLWF) organized the Workshop “Developing Trade Union Strategy on Corporate Social Responsibility in the Sportswear Sector in Asia – National Phase/Thailand”. The objective of this activity was to develop a dialogue between trade union leaders and CSR representatives from the brands and suppliers. The topic hereby was the freedom of association with the aim to create space for trade unions and workers to exercise their freedom to organize.  

The participants had the opportunity to meet with the new Minister of Labour and the Permanent Secretary. Delegates from the Textile Worker Federation of Thailand (TWFT) were able to talk with local and regional CSR managers as well as key suppliers of Asics, Puma and Adidas. The suppliers were made aware of the importance of the conventions 87 and 98. All parties had the opportunity to exchange their views in an open manner and discuss existing obstacles, in particular regarding the implementation of freedom of association.

Mr. Apai Chandanachulaka, Minister of Labour, opens the workshop

Group discussion of representatives from trade unions and CSR managers in the sport wear sector