Application of Human Rights Due Diligence and the LeanIn Concept for Addressing Pregnancy-Related Discrimination in Cambodia’s Garment Sector

Abstract

Workers in Cambodian garment factories often suffer from human rights and labor abuse issues. The gender income disparities were growing in most Asian developing countries over the past years (OECD in OECD due diligence guidance for responsible supply chains in the garment and footwear sector, 2017)and pregnancy-related human rights issues appear to have received little attention. Most female workers in Cambodian garment factories lack awareness to resist abuses and struggle against human rights issues. This paper considers how companies can implement the due diligence recommendations for responsible supply chains in the garment and footwear sector. We draw on guidance from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to propose ways to address pregnancy-related human rights and labor abuse issues for female workers in Cambodia’s garment industry. Also, we offer some suggestions related to LeanIn.org that could help raise worker awareness of the issues. For Cambodia, to stay at the forefront of the promise of improved human rights in the garment industry, it is vital for them to solve the pregnancy-related human rights and labor abuse issues.