In a significant move for worker rights, ASOS, the global fashion giant, has claimed to have become the first online retailer to sign a legally binding agreement to support collective bargaining in Cambodia's garment and footwear sector.

This agreement signifies ASOS' continued commitment to its ‘Fashion with Integrity’ programme, which prioritises respecting and upholding human rights throughout its supply chain.

The agreement was signed with IndustriALL Global Union, a global federation of unions representing 50 million workers in 140 countries, with the support of Action, Collaboration, Transformation (ACT).

This signing represents a crucial step towards establishing the first-ever collective bargaining agreement (CBA) in Cambodia's garment and footwear industry that is directly supported by brands. 

The agreement serves a critical role in fostering collaboration between all stakeholders within the industry's value chain, including brands, employers, and worker unions.

This collaborative approach demonstrates strong leadership and aims to fulfil expectations for human rights due diligence while ensuring brands meaningfully engage with stakeholders.

“Having been involved in the ACT process for a number of years, we’re incredibly proud to be one of the first brands to sign a legally binding agreement with IndustriALL Global Union,” said Adil Rehman, head of Human Rights at ASOS.

“This is a vital first step towards an agreement that will have a broader positive impact on human rights within the global supply chain, and shows what can be achieved when brands, unions, and employers work together to achieve sustainable, long-term change.”

This agreement adds to ASOS' existing commitment to worker rights.

The company said it remains the only online retailer with a Global Framework Agreement (GFA) with IndustriALL Global Union, which has been in effect since 2017.

This latest development underscores ASOS' ongoing efforts to promote ethical practices and improve working conditions within its supply chain.