Behind the brand names: working conditions and labour rights in export processing zones

The report explores the realties of working conditions in export prcessing zones (EPZs). It points out that EPZs are costly in terms of the infrastructure they require, use few local inputs, and provide little or no tax revenue for their host countries. Furthermore working conditions are often appalling, especially for women who form the majority of the workforce.

This is further illustrated by a series of case studies, commissioned from journalists, who investigated employment practices and labour rights in export processing zones, which are also included in the report. Each case study highlights a different aspect of the problem:

• Bangladesh: trade unions banned from EPZs
• China: the global factory
• Dominican Republic: jobs at risk
• Haiti: union busting by Grupo M
• Honduras: union break through in the maquilas
• Madagascar: the lure of cheap labour
• Mauritius: textile industry at a crossroads
• Mexico: clean up your computer
• Sri Lanka: unions heavily discouraged.