CNV International

Improving working conditions: Value proposition for the Fair Work Monitor

CNV International is an international trade union as part of the Dutch trade union CNV. CNV International wants to contribute to an inclusive, sustainable international society with decent work for everyone. To this end, CNV International works closely together with a large network of trade union partners in Africa, Asia, Central and South America. Local labour unions represent workers’ voices in social dialogue with employers and/or (local) governments. Therefore, they play an important role in improving working conditions in international value chains. CNV International supports (local) unions for example through knowledge exchange, training, and innovative tools, such as the Fair Work Monitor (hereafter: the Monitor).

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Impact areas

Transparent value chains

Services

Duration

2023-2024

Further development

The Monitor is deployed in a few sectors (textile, mining, sugar cane, palm oil) and countries (Cambodia, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica). CNV International has the ambition to further develop the Monitor, to continue its use in current sectors and countries as well as to expand the use of the Monitor in new sectors/countries. CNV International asked Schuttelaar & Partners to support with market research.

Tool for impact

The Fair Work Monitor is developed by CNV International to support local labour unions in their work to improve labour conditions. The Monitor collects data about labour conditions directly from workers in a structured manner through digital surveys. This helps local unions to gain better insight into labour conditions. This structured information is used in negotiations with local governments and employers. The continuation and strengthening of the Monitor is of utmost importance to empower local unions.

Our role

Together with CNV International, we conducted market research and a needs assessment to enhance the value of the Monitor for local unions. This research feeds into distinctive value propositions which contribute to better insights into labour conditions and therefore support in improving working conditions in international value chains. An important element in these propositions is seeking synergies and partnerships with actors along the supply chain, such as brands, certification schemes or multistakeholder initiatives, to support unions. By collaborating, greater impact can be achieved in improving wages and conditions for workers.

As part of the assignment, we also supported CNV International with advice on the development of transparent and impactful dashboards for the Fair Work Monitor. These dashboards aim to enhance collaboration with value chain actors to jointly improve working conditions.