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H&M positive to the uniform minimum wage set in Myanmar

By Minjun Park
1 min read
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In this article (5)
At H&M, It is positive to the uniform minimum wage that has been set by the Government. A uniform minimum wage across all industries is essential for the sustainable economic development not only for the textile industry but also for the country as a whole.

H&M also believes that the minimum wage should be reconsidered through an annual review mechanism, which is inclusive of key stakeholders. It aims at laying the foundation for a vibrant tripartite industrial relation and wage level negotiations process based on transparency, inclusiveness and peaceful negotiation.

The above has been addressed in two joint letters to the Government of Myanmar. H&M has also met with the Ministry of Labor and expressed the expectations about setting minimum wage levels and annual review mechanisms to ensure that workers receive a fair wage.

H&M’s role is to contribute to a working environment in the factories where a skilled workforce has their wages annually reviewed and negotiated. It is believed that meaningful collective bargaining is very important and are looking at ways to strengthen it. Workers’ ability to organise and negotiate about their rights is key to improve working conditions. That is why   industrial relations has set as one of our main sustainability focus and will launch a project to strengthen industrial relations in Myanmar in 2015.

 

Questions & Answers

Q.

Why does H&M support a uniform minimum wage in Myanmar?

A.

H&M believes a uniform minimum wage across all industries is vital for sustainable economic development in Myanmar, benefiting both the textile industry and the country as a whole, according to their statement.

Q.

How does H&M suggest the minimum wage should be managed over time?

A.

H&M suggests the minimum wage should be reconsidered through an annual review mechanism. This process should be inclusive of key stakeholders and foster transparent, inclusive, and peaceful wage negotiations.

Q.

What is H&M's specific role regarding worker wages and conditions in factories?

A.

H&M aims to contribute to a working environment where skilled workers have their wages annually reviewed and negotiated. They also believe in strengthening meaningful collective bargaining and workers' ability to organise.

Q.

What concrete action is H&M taking to improve industrial relations in Myanmar?

A.

H&M has designated industrial relations as a main sustainability focus. They plan to launch a project in 2015 specifically to strengthen industrial relations within Myanmar.

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