Swiss perspectives in 10 languages

Fair fashion petition launched

Clothing manufacturers should ensure that the textiles they use are produced under fair conditions, says a Swiss non-governmental organisation.

The Declaration of Berne launched an online petition on Wednesday calling on manufacturers to implement the norms of the “Clean Clothes Campaign” that promotes the interests of workers in the garment industry.

“Child labour, low pay and inhuman working conditions characterise the textile industry,” the organisation said.

The petition also wants more fair trade and organically produced garments to be offered for sale, and calls on manufacturers to adapt their policies on pricing and supply to environmental and social norms.

It calls on them to join the independent monitoring body Fair Wear Foundation and ensure that they do not produce misleading reports about their ethical credentials.

The petition, which hopes to gather 20,000 signatures, will be sent to the 50 biggest clothing companies in Switzerland.

“Consumers want to be able to buy clothes that respect human dignity and the environment,” the organisation said.

In compliance with the JTI standards

More: SWI swissinfo.ch certified by the Journalism Trust Initiative

You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here. Please join us!

If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.

SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR

SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR