Implementation of the H&M Global Framework Agreement in Cambodia: Producing Outcomes for Industrial Democracy Despite a Challenging Context?

Abstract

Global Framework Agreements (GFAs) are expected to be a more effective instrument for safeguarding collective labour rights in global supply chains than the unilateral instruments of private regulation adopted previously. The direct involvement of global union federations as contractual partners has significant potential in this regard. However, the effects of GFAs in supply chains have so far been under-researched. Since the exercise of collective labour rights is often prevented or undermined in producer countries of the Global South, and global supply chains are characterized by unstable and volatile relationships between global brands and local suppliers, the effective local implementation of GFAs faces particular challenges. Against this background, this article provides a qualitative analysis of expert interviews to examine how the implementation of the GFA of the global fashion brand H&M in Cambodia has influenced power relations between key stakeholders in the Cambodian garment industry and to what extent the agreement contributes to promoting ‘industrial democracy’ in the H&M supply chain in Cambodia. Platform Work, Temporary Agency Work, Temporary Agency Work Directive, Atypical Employment