H&M Group and IndustriALL Renew Global Workers Agreement

Retail group H&M Group partnered with IndustriALL Global Union and IF Metall to renew and expand a Global Framework Agreement designed to protect garment workers across approximately 1,000 factories. The updated agreement strengthens workplace conditions and union rights by incorporating all core International Labour Organization conventions, including Convention 190 on preventing violence and harassment.

The expanded agreement introduces a binding dispute resolution process managed by an independent mediator and a new governance structure. This structure includes joint industrial relations development committees, global steering, and national monitoring. The partners also committed to enhanced due diligence aligned with OECD Guidelines and established mechanisms to remedy gender-based violence.

IndustriALL General Secretary Atle Hoie stated that the agreement includes significant achievements regarding the inclusion of ILO conventions. The partners reaffirmed their support for broader industry initiatives, including the ACT agreement and the Accord on Fire and Building Safety, to improve general working conditions throughout the textile sector.