Better Factories Cambodia

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Region/Country:
East Asia & Pacific Cambodia
Project Duration:
December 2012
-
December 2019
Funding and Year:
FY
2010
: USD
660,000
FY
2012
: USD
1,000,000
FY
2014
: USD
700,000
FY
2016
: USD
350,000
FY
2017
: USD
370,000
FY
2018
: USD
400,000

Better Factories Cambodia is part of the Better Work Program, a comprehensive effort that brings together all levels of the apparel industry to improve working conditions and respect of labor rights for workers, while boosting the competitiveness of apparel businesses. As a result of their participation with Better Work, export apparel factories in Cambodia have improved compliance with labor law including issues of compensation, contracts, occupational safety and health and working time. By enhancing working conditions, Better Factories Cambodia increases the factories’ productivity and profitability.

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The Problem

Harsh working conditions in apparel factories have been at the center of a large and growing debate about globalization and labor standards for years. Low wages, long hours, high temperatures, excessive noise, poor air quality, unsanitary conditions, and abuse (both verbal and physical) are often cited as evidence of non-compliant labor practices.

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Our Strategy

Better Factories Cambodia combines labor monitoring and training to apparel factories. By monitoring export apparel factories' compliance with international labor standards, the program informs major brands and buyers of labor conditions in each factory. Brands want to work with factories that will protect their reputation, so the program becomes a “race to the top” for increasing conditions, productivity and provide good jobs.  The program also educates workers and managers on labor rights and responsibilities, and provides a space for factory level dialogue between management and workers.

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Results

Better Factories Cambodia is currently operating in 531 factories, from which 521 work on apparel and 10 on the footwear industry. The program benefits 545,751 workers, 80% of which are women.

  Midterm Evaluation
Grantee: International Labor Organization (ILO)
Implementing Partners: International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Contact Information:
(202) 693-4900
/
Office of Trade and Labor Affairs (OTLA)
Tags: Trade Private Sector Engagement