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Promoting Labour Rights in Key Industries: Utilizing ILO Tools and Addressing New Due Diligence Requirements

Project
Promoting Labour Rights in Key Industries: Utilizing ILO Tools and Addressing New Due Diligence Requirements
Project Partner
International Labour Organization
Status

Completed

In July 2024, a thematic workshop was convened by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to address labour rights, compliance, and the implications of new due diligence requirements for Türkiye’s export-oriented industries. As a project partner, the Business and Human Rights Association (BHRTR) contributed to the process by providing technical expertise in mapping the current situation, facilitating workshop discussions, and preparing the final consolidated report.

The workshop took place at a critical juncture, as the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and other international frameworks are increasingly requiring companies to identify, prevent, and remedy adverse human rights and environmental impacts. For Türkiye, where sectors such as textiles, apparel, leather, food and agriculture, machinery, and automotive are closely tied to European markets, these developments carry significant consequences. The workshop therefore focused on how businesses, public authorities, and social partners can prepare for these changes by utilizing ILO tools and aligning with international standards.

BHRTR’s contributions included reviewing and mapping the existing situation in Türkiye, with particular attention to recent legislative updates and policy changes. Together with ILO officials and partners, BHRTR supported the planning and facilitation of the sessions, ensuring an inclusive exchange among diverse stakeholders. The workshop brought together representatives from public institutions, private sector actors, trade unions, employer organizations, and civil society. Discussions highlighted both achievements and persistent challenges in advancing decent work, non-discrimination, and compliance with labour standards. Special emphasis was given to the impact of due diligence requirements on export-oriented industries employing large numbers of refugee and host community workers.
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Following the workshop, BHRTR prepared a comprehensive final report consolidating the outcomes and recommendations. The report summarized the current context, identified gaps, outlined priority areas for action, and proposed opportunities for collaboration between stakeholders. It also aligned the findings with national legislation and key international frameworks, including the ILO Tripartite Declaration, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.

 

By supporting this process as a project partner, BHRTR contributed to raising awareness on evolving due diligence obligations and fostering constructive dialogue among stakeholders, helping to build a foundation for more effective and inclusive labour rights practices in Türkiye.