A workshop on how to effectively implement global framework agreements (GFAs) in the textile and garment industry of Myanmar took place recently. The aim was to ensure that under GFAs workers’ rights are respected in the supply chain at all global operations of multinational companies.

More than 60 per cent participants were young trade unionists. The workshop included a presentation on GFA brands in the textile and garment sector and the importance of signing an agreement with multinational companies as a means to build better industrial relations.

Participants discussed how they could use global framework agreements for organizing and how to apply brands’ leverage for workers’ rights under any rights violations. The participants continued with mapping of multinational companies in the textile and garment sectors, and looked at ways of overcoming the difficulties of organizing a new workplace.

Trade unionists raised questions on gender discrimination, outsourcing of some jobs, the differences on rights in an agreement and in reality, violations against unionization, fair wages and fair treatment under a GFA. An attorney from Myanmar gave a talk on workers’ rights violations in Myanmar, legal rights and implementation. Participants closed the workshop with new organizing plans under GFAs and future mapping ideas.