The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and IKEA Supply AG have formalized a partnership agreement aimed at bolstering the protection of migrant workers employed throughout IKEA’s global supply chain. The collaboration, signed yesterday, underscores a shared commitment to upholding migrant rights and fostering sustainable development.
Elizabeth Warn, Global Head of Labour Mobility at IOM, emphasized the critical role of migrant rights in strengthening economies. The partnership with IKEA Supply AG is poised to enhance migrant well-being by combining IOM’s expertise in responsible business practices with IKEA’s expansive supply chain network.
The collaboration will focus on capacity-building initiatives to promote ethical recruitment and employment practices. Through joint efforts, both organizations aspire to improve the working and living conditions of migrant workers across the supply chain, ensuring their meaningful inclusion and employment opportunities.
Christina Niemela Ström, Head of Sustainability at IKEA Supply, highlighted the vulnerability of migrant workers to human rights violations and exploitation. This partnership signifies a significant step forward in fortifying IKEA’s commitment to upholding the rights of migrant workers within its supply chain.
Aligned with international human and labour rights standards, IOM and IKEA Supply AG will collaborate to enhance ethical recruitment practices and facilitate access to effective remedies for migrant workers, in accordance with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
Over the past decade, IKEA Supply AG and IOM have collaborated on various projects in South and South-East Asia, resulting in the development of the IKEA Guidelines on Responsible Recruitment. These guidelines offer practical solutions to uphold the rights of migrant workers within IKEA’s supply chain.
Given Thailand’s historical reliance on migrant workers for its economic growth, the partnership aims to leverage regional best practices to foster greater inclusion and respect for human and labour rights across global supply chains. Azaliah Mapombere, Global Human Rights and Social Impact Lead at IKEA Supply, emphasized the partnership’s commitment to addressing challenges faced by migrant workers, benefiting both businesses and individuals alike.