RISE for Impact advances work standards in the cotton supply chain

The RISE for Impact project is collaborating with farmers in the cotton supply chain to promote decent work by integrating Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.

Initiated at the request of a premium textile brand, the project was presented to over 60 global suppliers, focusing on the role of multinational enterprises (MNEs) in addressing work-related challenges. The session also highlighted the importance of brands taking proactive steps to ensure social compliance throughout their supply chain, beginning at the farmer level.

To expand its reach, the project has partnered with the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI). Through its subsidiary, Cotton Development and Research Association (CDRA), two farmer meets were organized between October and November in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh. During these sessions, ILO-trained trainers from CITI-CDRA educated cotton farmers on safety and health practices.

In November, a sector-level event by the Organic Cotton Accelerator facilitated a fire-side chat on decent work and a sustainable cotton supply chain. The event brought together national and international stakeholders, including representatives from the Indian government, brands, retailers, farm groups, suppliers, industry associations, and civil society organizations.