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1. Article by Myanmar Labour News

We received the mentioned article from March 2024 and immediately integrated this in our ongoing HRDD action plan on site. We initiated an independent investigation to examine every issue in this article. It was carried out by an independent local organisation with long-term experience in improving working conditions in the apparel sector in Myanmar and included confidential worker interviews. As a member of Fair Wear Foundation, we have been in exchange on all steps also with them. The investigation showed no evidence that supported the allegations.

Furthermore, continuous audits, visits – also by Strauss staff onsite, as well as trainings show there is a functioning Workplace Coordination Committee as well as internal and external grievance channels the workers are actively using and issues are being solved.

2. Case garment worker

During several months after the military takeover, many people in Myanmar and most of the workers went on protests. Also on Sunday, 14th March 2021, when factories were closed, many joined the protests against the military regime. During these protests, the mentioned person was killed by the armed military forces, as our production partner confirmed to us. This was shocking for us at Strauss, for our production partner, as well as for the colleagues in the factory.

After this incident, we have again reconsidered our production in Myanmar – which ended in favour for staying. Important factors were: We feel a responsibility to the workers there who gain a secure livelihood through our orders. It is important to us to stand with the people of Myanmar at this challenging time and thereby ensure some semblance of economic stability for them and their families...

[The full response is attached]