In a significant development for the global supply chain, the IndustriALL Global Union ICT electrical and electronics steering committee has committed to intensifying efforts to organize and defend workers’ rights across every link of the electronics supply chain. Convening on June 10-11 in Kuala Lumpur, delegates from twelve countries focused on strategies to enhance union density, strengthen collective bargaining, and inclusively organize women, youth, and white-collar workers throughout the industry.
Malaysia’s Electronics Industry Employees Union Coalition is at the forefront of advocating for labor law reforms, particularly pushing for changes to the secret ballot process for union representation to ensure more inclusive and democratic participation. In India, union efforts are directed towards organizing migrant, contract, and young workers, addressing the diverse and dynamic nature of the workforce in the supply chain.
In Thailand, the Confederation of Industrial Labour is campaigning for the ratification of key international labor standards, aiming to bolster the rights of workers within the global supply chain framework. Similarly, in Korea, the Federation of Metalworkers’ Trade Unions is driving an ambitious initiative to achieve full union representation at workplaces and neighboring companies, underscoring a robust commitment to worker solidarity and rights across the supply chain.
IndustriALL’s assistant general secretary, Kan Matsuzaki, highlighted the necessity of organizing workers throughout the entire battery supply chain, spanning from mining and chemicals to manufacturing and automotive sectors. “Promoting decent working conditions and building solidarity across these sectors is crucial for protecting our workers and ensuring ethical supply chain practices,” Matsuzaki emphasized.
The steering committee also addressed the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the ICT and electronics supply chain. With AI poised to replace millions of manufacturing jobs by 2025, there is a pressing need for strategies that mitigate its impact on employment. The recent adoption of the Artificial Intelligence Act by the European Parliament sets a critical precedent for balancing technological innovation with the protection of worker rights, ensuring AI technologies are safe, traceable, and equitable within the supply chain.
Occupational safety and health were also key topics of discussion, as surveys revealed significant health concerns among electronics sector workers, including musculoskeletal disorders, sleep issues, and depressive disorders. The committee called for greater attention to these issues, urging companies to respect labor rights and improve transparency and fairness in their operations across the supply chain.
This renewed commitment to enhancing working conditions and protecting worker rights throughout the electronics supply chain is a pivotal step forward. As the industry continues to evolve, there is a strong focus on ensuring that technological and economic advancements lead to improved jobs and conditions for all workers involved in the supply chain.
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