The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and IKEA Supply AG are teaming up for the first time in a global partnership to improve the lives and rights of migrant workers throughout IKEA's supply chain.

This three-year collaboration builds on a decade of successful projects between the two organisations. By working together, IKEA and IOM will ensure migrant workers are treated fairly and have opportunities for good jobs. This will also help migration contribute more to sustainable development.

“Migrant workers who live and work outside their countries of origin can be particularly vulnerable to human rights violations and exploitation. Building on a decade of collaboration, this new partnership with IOM is a major step toward further strengthening our commitment to safeguard the rights of migrant workers in our supply chain,” says Christina Niemela Ström, Head of Sustainability at IKEA Supply.

The partnership will focus on ethical recruitment, good working conditions, and giving migrant workers ways to address any problems they face. IOM will share its expertise in responsible business practices to help IKEA improve conditions for migrant workers across its entire supply chain.

“The full protection of migrant rights strengthens economies and enhances sustainable development,” says Elizabeth Warn, the Global Head of Labour Mobility at IOM. “IOM's strong collaboration with IKEA Supply AG will improve the well-being of migrants by connecting our expertise in responsible business conduct with IKEA’s global supply chain.”

Over the past decade, IKEA and IOM have collaborated on projects in Southeast Asia. This led to the creation of IKEA's Responsible Recruitment Guidelines, which help suppliers treat migrant workers fairly.

“As a regional hub for labour migration, Thailand has a long history of migrant workers playing a vital role in its economy and development,” said Maximillian Pottler, Head of Labour Mobility and Social Inclusion at IOM Thailand. “As the country strives to become a global leader in business and human rights, this new partnership will leverage best practices from the region to further strengthen greater inclusion and respect for human and labour rights of migrant workers across global supply chains.”

“Through this partnership, we will continue supporting our suppliers to secure decent and meaningful work and put an even stronger focus on addressing challenges faced by migrant workers across our supply chain, which will benefit both the business and, more importantly, the individuals,” says Azaliah Mapombere, Global Human Rights and Social Impact Lead at IKEA Supply.

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Source: IKEA