Baseline Survey for Trade, Labour and Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work in South-East Asia Project
The "Trade, Labour and FPRW in Southeast Asia" project is a five-year initiative (March 2024 – February 2029) funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO). With a budget of CAD 6.99 million, the project aims to enhance the integration of and compliance with ILO fundamental conventions in Southeast Asian trade sectors, particularly in countries involved in free trade agreements (FTAs)
The project seeks to strengthen the promotion and enforcement of labour compliance with international labour standards, including Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW), particularly in export sectors. The initiative aligns with the Decent Work Agenda for ILO Asia and the Pacific region, Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy, and ASEAN initiatives to promote sustainable and inclusive growth through improved labour compliance mechanisms.
Project Objectives:
1. To improve enforcement and compliance with labour provisions under current and future FTAs between Southeast Asia and Canada.
2. To foster Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining (FOA/CB), irrespective of a convention's ratification status.
3. To promote gender equality and inclusion within labour frameworks.
Project Outcomes1:
1. Strengthened capacity of key stakeholders in Southeast Asia to uphold labour compliance with international labour standards, including FPRW.
2. Enhanced tripartite dialogue and consensus on labour rights compliance and the enforcement of FPRW in Southeast Asia.
3. Improved knowledge and awareness among stakeholders for informed action towards FPRW.
4. Strengthened implementation of FPRW in ongoing Southeast Asian initiatives.
The Baseline review and report (hereafter referred to as ‘Baseline’) will provide crucial data to inform project indicators, allow for measurement of progress, and enable adaptive, informed management and a basis for comparison over the project's life.