Sportswear workers in the public eye now more than ever
Sportswear is one of the more popular clothing industries, which makes it a highly competitive market. Inevitably this means that supplier prices are driven down. Not a problem for the consumer but certainly an issue close to the hearts of the workers that make these clothes.
For example, a worker in Chinese factory producing for a key supplier is paid betwen $1 and $2 per day. The good news is that these workers have a job that they might not otherwise have. But the downside is that they have no unions and little opportunity to press for higher wages.
The site cleanclothes.org operates an international campaign focused on improving working conditions in the global garment and sportswear industries, and to empower the workers in it.
Countries taking part in the campaign include Austria, Belgium (North and South), France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
We all enjoy our sportswear but let’s always remember where it comes from and push towards ensuring the workers who make it earn at least enough to rise above the poverty line. If you agree you can take action by clicking this link and filling in the form. An email will then be sent on your behalf to the presidents of several top sportswear firms expressing your desire for better wages and conditions for their workers.
