Fair Wear Foundation
Issuing Organization:
Fair Wear Foundation
Label purpose:
The Fair Wear Foundation (FWF) is dedicated to improving workplace conditions in the garment industry. It ensures fair labour practices in producing clothing and textiles, including decent working conditions and workers' rights. The foundation aims to foster a fair and ethical trading system that benefits workers in garment-producing countries.

Certification Criteria:

The FWF assesses member brands based on labour standards derived from the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions and the UN’s Declaration on Human Rights. These standards include no forced or child labour, safe and healthy working conditions, legal labour contracts, payment of a living wage, reasonable working hours, no discrimination against employees, and the right to unionize and bargain collectively.

Geographical Coverage:

The FWF assesses member brands based on labour standards derived from the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions and the UN’s Declaration on Human Rights. These standards include no forced or child labour, safe and healthy working conditions, legal labour contracts, payment of a living wage, reasonable working hours, no discrimination against employees, and the right to unionize and bargain collectively.

Target Industries/Segments:

The certification is aimed at brands, manufacturers, and factories in the garment industry seeking to ensure and demonstrate compliance with ethical labour practices.

Certification Process:

Membership with FWF is based on a willingness to work towards compliance with the FWF labour standards. Brands must implement the FWF Code of Labour Practices in their supply chain and submit annual performance checks assessing their progress in implementing fair labour practices. This includes factory audits, worker interviews, and corrective action plans where necessary.

Certificate Validity:

FWF membership is ongoing, with annual performance checks to ensure continuous improvement and adherence to fair labour practices. Brands must consistently implement corrective actions and improve working conditions in their supply chains.

Benefits for Consumers/Producers:

For consumers, purchasing from FWF-member brands ensures that the products are made in factories that adhere to strict labour standards, supporting ethical consumption. For producers, FWF membership demonstrates a commitment to corporate social responsibility, enhancing brand reputation and potentially leading to increased consumer trust and loyalty.

Sustainability Impact:

The Fair Wear Foundation promotes sustainable development within the garment industry by advocating for better labour practices, which contribute to the well-being and empowerment of workers. It addresses key issues such as poverty, inequality, and injustice in the supply chain, positively impacting the lives of garment workers and their communities.