Publication: Lao PDR - Labor Standards and Productivity in the Garments Export Sector : A Survey of Managers and Workers
Date
2012-07
ISSN
Published
2012-07
Author(s)
World Bank
Abstract
This report describes labor practices in
the Lao garments export sector as seen by both management
and labor. The main objective of this report is to present
the differing perspectives on working conditions between
managers and workers, and to explore ways in which the Lao
garment sector could break out of this unsustainable
situation. More specifically, insights on management
practices, working conditions and worker motivation, as well
as industry technology and workflow practices, are drawn
from the survey and recommendations made on what firms,
industry, government and development partners can do to
boost productivity in the sector. This study seeks to
investigate further possible factors contributing to
low-productivity including management practices, working
conditions and worker motivation, as well as industry
technology and workflow practices. In order for the garment
sector to progress, this study points to possibilities to
increase worker wellbeing, reduce turnover and improve
productivity through mutually reinforcing actions. Possible
interventions include: a transition support program and
improved labor market information systems to support labor
force entry; better worker representation and dispute
resolution mechanisms; and, a factories improvement program
that would include monitoring/certification systems to
provide incentives for firms to improve conditions as a
means of accessing elusive premium buyers.
Citation
“World Bank. 2012. Lao PDR - Labor Standards and Productivity in the Garments Export Sector : A Survey of Managers and Workers. © Washington, DC. http://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/204c23b4-ffa2-55dd-a1bb-08ac97278e82 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”