Jordan

During the past few years, Jordan has been undergoing a period of reform, economic openness and global integration. The apparel industry, which has experienced rapid growth, now accounts for nearly 30% of total exports and employs 46,000 workers, of which approximately two thirds are migrant workers. Exports to the United States alone approach US$ 1 billion annually.

The emergence of the industry has presented Jordan with challenges in assuring the effective application of local labour laws and international labour standards. In response, the Government of Jordan has developed a broad programme of action to improve labour administration and compliance. Better Work Jordan, which aims to improve competitiveness and compliance with labour standards, is a part of this action.

Better Work Jordan is one of a number of ILO and IFC projects that support the broader effort by the Government of Jordan to improve compliance with labour standards. These projects include activities in the areas of labour administration and inspection services, promoting social dialogue, combating trafficking in persons, fostering equality at work and increasing the capacity of workers’ and employers’ organizations. Better Work Jordan is designed to complement these efforts, with a focus on enterprise-level activities, as well as to build capacity for worker representation and collective bargaining. The programme also contributes to government initiatives seeking to increase the employment level of Jordanian workers by improving labour standards for all workers, a priority given the high level of unemployment facing the country.

Following its implementation in the garment sector, Better Work Jordan plans to consider expansion to other labour-intensive Jordanian industries that contribute to global supply chains.