Garmentworkers in Cambodia (photo provided by solidar.ch)

Deeksha is a programme manager for the Asia Decent Work Programme of the development organization Solidar Suisse. We spoke to her about the project of helping garment workers in Cambodia to improve their bargaining position by using publicly available data. In our conversation, she shed light on the harsh reality these workers face, the challenges of independent trade union organisation and the role that consumers and brands play in ensuring ethical labour practices.

Please tell us a bit more about your role and the project you’re working on in Cambodia.

I support a project with garment workers in Cambodia, helping them build their capacity to use publicly available data in order to strengthen their negotiating and bargaining power. By publicly available data, I mean sources like the Better Work Global program, which is an initiative by the ILO (International Labour Organisation). In Cambodia, it operates under the name Better Factories Cambodia. This program assesses enrolled factories and publishes reports on working conditions through a transparency portal.

Our role is to empower workers by helping them access and understand this data. We train them to compare the reported factory conditions with their own experiences on the ground. When discrepancies arise, such as poor working conditions that aren’t reflected in reports, they can use this data to advocate for better wages, improved safety standards, and access to social protection. This strengthens their bargaining position in negotiations with factory management.

Before we dive deeper into the program, could you give us an overview of the general situation for garment workers in Cambodia?

Garment workers in Cambodia face extremely challenging working conditions. The labor environment itself is tough. Minimum wages are low and don’t cover basic living expenses. This often forces workers to take out microfinance loans at exorbitant interest rates, trapping them in a cycle of debt.

Inside the factories, conditions are alarming. Occupational health and safety standards are often not maintained, and workers are given unrealistic production targets. They are forced to work excessive hours, sometimes without even being able to take basic bathroom breaks. Their health is frequently impacted as a result.

Have there been any successes in the programme?

Yes, absolutely. One of the biggest successes has been helping workers use data to advocate for themselves at the factory level. Previously, they depended on labor federations to negotiate on their behalf, but now, with access to data, they feel more empowered to raise issues directly with management.

For example, workers have used data to demand better hygiene and sanitation facilities, such as clean and functioning toilets. These small but significant improvements show that when workers have access to information, they can push for change more effectively.

However, on a broader scale, the situation for labor rights in Cambodia remains difficult. In recent years, new laws have placed even more restrictions on labor movements, making it increasingly challenging for unions to operate independently.

Looking at the situation in Cambodia, what gives you hope?

What gives me hope is the resilience of the workers. Despite the incredibly challenging environment, they continue to fight for their rights with determination. Their perseverance is inspiring, and it proves that even in difficult circumstances, collective action can create change.

Since we’re here in Switzerland today, what role can we consumers play in all of this?

As consumers, it’s important to reflect on where our clothes come from. The fast fashion industry is growing at an alarming rate, and many people buy garments simply because they’re cheap, without considering their origins.

Consumers should ask themselves: Where was this garment made? What are the working conditions in that country? What struggles are the workers facing? Clothing isn’t just fabric. It carries the stories of the people who made it. We need to see the human element behind every piece of clothing we purchase and discard without a second thought.

That’s a powerful message. Do you have one last message for the consumers here in Switzerland?

Yes. Brands have a huge responsibility. They should ensure that they source from factories that maintain ethical working conditions and respect labor rights.

Often, when brands discover violations in a factory, they simply cut ties and move their orders elsewhere. But that isn’t the right approach. It leaves workers unemployed and vulnerable. Instead, brands should work with these factories to improve conditions, ensuring that workers aren’t the ones who suffer from corporate decisions.

For consumers, I’d say, many take pride in buying from big brands like H&M, Zara, Uniqlo, and Marks & Spencer. But rather than focusing on the brand name, they should consider the people behind the clothes. Ethical consumption isn’t just about buying less, it’s about buying responsibility and understanding the impact of our choices.

Despite the discouraging obstacles, there are glimmers of hope. Workers are learning to use data as a tool for advocacy, and their resilience continues to drive change. Deeksha's message is clear: consumers, brands and global organisations all have a role to play in improving labour rights. Ethical consumption is not just a choice, it is a responsibility.

Fine out more about the Solidar Suisse project here: https://solidar.ch/de/projekte/kambodscha/textilarbeiterinnen/

Cambodia: The Hidden Cost of Fast Fashion