Myanmar: Honeys Holdings & its subsidiary allegedly retaliating against union activities and failing to provide remedy; incl. co. response

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On 10 December 2024, the nonprofit organization Human Rights Now (HRN) pointed out human rights violations at Honeys Garment Industry Limited (HGIL), a Myanmar subsidiary of Honeys Holdings Co., Ltd. (Honeys HD). HRN claims that excessive production quotas have been set, which could be considered forced labour that damages the health of workers, and that there have been obstructions to labour union activities.
HGIL has also filed a lawsuit against Daw Myo Myo Aye, seeking damages for her efforts to improve working conditions, and reported dismissing 448 workers who participated in strikes and protests.
The lawsuit was ultimately withdrawn after significant external pressure including several statements by more than 20 CSOs. CSOs further call on Honeys HD to take the following actions immediately.
- Acknowledge that the civil lawsuit and the dismissal of 448 workers involved in the protest were a violation of international human rights standards, and issue a formal apology to Daw Myo Myo Aye, the defendant in the lawsuit, as well as to the dismissed workers.
- Provide compensation to the dismissed workers and reinstate those who wish to return to their jobs.
- Conduct comprehensive human rights due diligence and improve working conditions at the HGIL factory and across the entire supply chain, by engaging with affected stakeholders.
- Establish accessible and effective grievance mechanisms for workers in accordance with the UNGPs.