The International Accord, an influential international agreement focusing on health and safety in the textile and garment sector, has witnessed a surge in support within Bangladesh, a powerhouse in the ready-made garments industry.
Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the International Accord, initially known as the Bangladesh Accord in 2013, evolved into the Transition Accord in 2018. With over 190 brands, retailers, and global trade unions initially signing on, the accord has played a pivotal role in ensuring industry-wide standards.
In 2021, the accord expanded its reach globally, attracting over 180 companies in its first year. While the agreement was extended on November 1, 2023, it is noteworthy that, as of January 3, 2024, around 100 brands and retailers have reaffirmed their commitment to the new International Accord. In comparison, 87 brands adhere to the Bangladesh Accord, and 92 to the Pakistan Accord.
Recognizing the challenges the renewal process poses, which demands brands and retailers to recommit each time, the International Agreement now boasts a groundbreaking three-year term with an automatic renewal option for an additional three years. This represents the lengthiest commitment period to date, spanning six years.
Major industry players, including Adidas, Asos, H&M, and Puma, have demonstrated their commitment to the new Accord. However, notable exclusions, such as luxury group LVMH and several luxury brands, raise questions about the uniformity of support across the industry.
Key players like Nike, Kering, Li Ning, Shein, VF, and Zalando, along with Walmart, are absent from the list of signatories. Intriguingly, competitors like Kmart and Target, albeit represented solely by their Australian divisions, have embraced the accord.
Over the past decade, the Accord has conducted a staggering 56,000 factory inspections, resolving 140,000 health and safety issues in 2,400 factories. More than two million workers have undergone training in health and safety practices. Crucially, workers in Accord-covered factories now have access to a hotline, ensuring anonymity as they raise concerns related to health and safety.
As Bangladesh continues to assert its prominence in the global ready-made garments industry, the growing support for the International Accord underscores the sector's commitment to maintaining high standards of health and safety. The accord's influence remains pivotal in shaping a sustainable and ethical future for Bangladesh's crucial contribution to the fashion world.
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