Violence after Cambodian government passes controversial law on trade unions

The International Labour Organization (ILO) and Industriall Global Union have expressed concern after the Cambodian government passed a controversial new bill that could restrict trade union activity.

Global non-governmental organisations had repeatedly requested alterations to the bill in the run up to it being adopted by parliament on 4 April. However, the bill was passed amid violent protests with, “none of the requested alterations being made”, according to Industriall.

The legislation has significant implications for Cambodia’s burgeoning clothing manufacturing industry, a key sourcing hub for brands such as H&M, Inditex, C&A, Levi Strauss, Marks & Spencer, Tchibo and Primark.

Following the passage of the law through parliament, the ILO released a statement saying that it had drawn the government’s attention during the initial phases of drafting to concerns surrounding insufficient protection of workers’ rights in the draft law, adding that it offered to familiarise lawmakers with the country’s ILO commitments.

For the full story, see the May 2016 edition of Textiles South East Asia. Not a subscriber? Sign up HERE