A research of the garment sector in India, Bangladesh and Cambodia, commissioned in the aftermath of the Rana Plaza disaster that led to scores of workers’ deaths, has revealed the poor wage and working conditions prevailing in the sector. While finding that the conditions of work are relatively better in India, it [1]highlights the plight of Cambodian workers who suffer abysmally low wage rates forcing them into debt, as well as the poor working conditions in Bangladesh. The report intends to be a tool for advocacy groups to force international brands to improve conditions of work at their manufacturing houses.

Global unions in the garment sector have urged the [2]transnational brands that are yet to sign the 2018 Transition Accord to do it now. The accord allows for inspection and monitoring of factories in Bangladesh for compliance with fire and safety provisions. While over 100 brands have signed the accord, major brands such as Marks and Spencers, Sainsbury, Abercombie and Fitch, and Metro are yet to sign the accord that will lapse in 100 days.

Venkat T., Srividya Tadepalli & Thomas Manuel