In 2023, the Fair Labor Association continued our work to evaluate members’ business practices against the highest international standards for global supply chains; advocate for improvements to wages, working hours, and the health and safety of workers; develop projects that test innovative ideas to improve working conditions; and provide resources that help members and affiliates develop a sustainable social compliance program that improves working conditions and protects workers’ rights.
We hope you’ll read our annual public report to learn more about our accomplishments. Highlights include:
- We welcomed seven new members, including Durak Hazelnuts, Founder Sport Group, SKIMS, Furman University, McGill University, and The New School.
- In December 2023, the FLA Board of Directors selected Jeff Vockrodt to succeed outgoing FLA President Sharon Waxman, who led FLA from 2016 – 2023. For two decades, Vockrodt has worked to advance workers’ rights and responsible business practices, as an organizer, attorney, policymaker, and executive. He previously held leadership positions at organizations including the US Department of Labor and Climate Jobs NY and has advanced human rights in the workplace through his work with labor unions, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the law firm of James & Hoffman.
- FLA and the American Apparel & Footwear Association re-launched and enhanced the AAFA/FLA Apparel & Footwear Industry Commitment to Responsible Recruitment in 2023. In addition to ensuring a no-fees recruitment policy, signatories now commit to creating conditions where workers receive a timely refund of any fees and costs paid to obtain or maintain their job. As part of the commitment, FLA and AAFA lead advocacy efforts to address migrant workers issues in high risk countries and regularly host information sessions for brands to promote continuous improvement in their work with suppliers.