Inditex, the leading multinational garment company owners of Zara and other high street brands, and IndustriALL Global Union have signed a joint declaration on August 4 to support the recovery of the global garment industry from the coronavirus pandemic.

The agreement commits to stabilize stable payment terms and financing support to suppliers’ cash flow. It pledges to respect freedom of association and collective bargaining rights, giving workers the right to join a union to advance their interests. It promotes social dialogue at all levels, and commits both organizations to working with governments and business organizations in source countries.

The agreement reinforces commitments to other multistakeholder initiatives, including the ILO Call to Action in the Global Garment Industry and the ACT initiative. It will ensure the health and safety of workers. Supplier companies will implement protective measures, and provide personal protective equipment.