German initiative for better work practice

Germany wants the G7 to take responsibility for the effective implementation of labour, social and environmental standards worldwide. A vision document prepared by two federal ministers has highlighted Germany’s perspective on the characteristics of an initiative called Good Work Worldwide.

Germany, which heads the G7 presidency, wants its initiative to achieve progress not only by bringing concrete benefits to as many people in the world as possible, but also by going beyond the individual level to contribute to sustainable development. The vision document says this can be achieved if all countries are given the opportunity to participate in global value creation and are included in a fair manner.

The German initiative has a two-pronged approach – decent work and sustainable production process. Germany wants shared responsibility where everyone can play a part and support responsible business.

It points out that a tragedy like the explosion that razed the Rana Plaza in Bangladesh killing over a thousand workers two years ago, must not happen again and that priority should be given to preventing such incidents in developing countries.

Good Work Worldwide wants the production process to ensure that future generations also have fair opportunities for development. It advocates a judicial use of scarce resources such as water, raw materials, soil, energy and a sensitive ecosystem by producer countries.  

The vision document .advocates exposing unacceptable practices and ensuring that victims’ voices are heard. It calls for G7 countries to join hands to make a difference and help build local capabilities. The document also envisages Good Work Worldwide as a building block for global partnership.