Subcontracting in the RMG sector in Cambodia a threat to UN goals: OXFAM

This requires urgent investigation to clarify the nature and scale of problems in the subcontracting segment and to find solutions that can improve the lives of workers in this sector, mainly women, she noted.

The right to decent work is recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which contains provisions on not only the right to work but various aspects of decent work, including fair and favorable working conditions, protection against unemployment, equal pay, social protection, and the right to create and joining trade unions.

OXFAM noted that the widespread existence of subcontracting facilities in Cambodia with limited enforcement of workers’ rights poses a threat to progress in achieving decent work and social protection goals for women workers in the country’s garment sector. Trade union presence in these subcontracting units is reported to be limited or non-existent.

Achieving the right to decent work is a key goal of the United Nations 2030 Agenda, and Sustainable Development Goal 8 calls on countries to promote sustainable, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.

Research has shown that the presence of trade unions has had a positive impact on the country’s garment workers by improving factory compliance with labor standards in various areas, including wages, working hours and leave, the report said.

However, in recent years, a significant segment of the subcontracting industry has expanded and is beyond the scope of the International Labor Organization (ILO) assessment program.

Trade union presence in these subcontracted facilities is reported to be limited or non-existent.

Estimates suggest that the subcontracting segment could account for 15 to 30 percent of the industry’s total workforce.

Fiber2Fashion Information Desk (DS)