The implementation of Global Framework Agreements (GFAs) to protect workers’ rights throughout the global supply chains during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond.

download PDF

Mariangela Zito

Summary: 1. Introduction. 2. What is the fate of labour rights within the global supply chains during the global crisis?. – 3. The implementation of Global Framework Agreements (GFA) to protect workers’ rights throughout the global supply chains. 4. Conclusions.

Abstract

The article aims at analyzing some joint declarations reached by Multinational companies of the garment, e-commerce, and food services sectors (Inditex, H&M, Tchibo, Asos, Sodexo) and the global trade unions of the sectors concerned. These declarations of ‘reaffirmed commitment’, stem from the previous Global Framework Agreements, are the result of the longstanding relationship existing between the groups and the global unions, as well as the evidence that the dialogue and the cooperation among the social partners may be an important tool for the protection of workers’ rights violated throughout the global value chains. These violations are exacerbated due to the spread of Covid-19 pandemic and its extraordinary consequences.

Keywords

Global Framework Agreements, Global Trade Union, Social dialogue, Workers’ rights’ violations, Global value chains.