Sustainable Textile Initiative: Together for Change (STITCH)
The Sustainable Textile Initiative: Together for Change (STITCH) aims to create a global garment and textile industry where garment workers, of which 75% are women, can access safe, dignified, and properly paid work. The initiative focuses on empowering workers to freely speak out, unionise, and engage in collective bargaining for better working conditions. By strengthening unions and labour rights organisations, STITCH amplifies workers’ voices and drives global change through collaboration with brands, suppliers, and governments.
Five‑Axis Transformation via STITCH
Data: STITCH conducts research to identify gaps in workers’ rights and working conditions, providing a basis for targeted interventions.
Capacity Building / Technical Assistance: The initiative equips unions and labour rights organisations with knowledge, skills, and tools to enhance their effectiveness in advocating for workers’ rights.
Technology / Machinery: While not directly involved in technology implementation, STITCH encourages the adoption of technologies that improve working conditions and productivity.
Finance: STITCH promotes responsible purchasing practices among brands, encouraging fair pricing and timely payments to suppliers to ensure workers receive proper wages.
Policy: The initiative works with brands to influence policies that support workers’ rights and promote responsible business practices throughout the supply chain.
Strategic Impact & Value Proposition
Empowered Workers: By strengthening unions and labour rights organisations, STITCH empowers workers to advocate for their rights and negotiate better working conditions.
Improved Working Conditions: Through collective bargaining and policy advocacy, STITCH contributes to safer and more dignified workplaces for garment workers.
Gender Equality: With a focus on women workers, STITCH promotes gender equality in the garment industry, addressing issues such as discrimination and harassment.
Sustainable Industry Practices: By collaborating with brands and suppliers, STITCH encourages the adoption of sustainable and ethical practices across the garment supply chain.
Global Collaboration: STITCH fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, including unions, brands, and governments, to drive systemic change in the garment industry.