From boardroom to breakroom

The Fair Work Monitor, developed by CNV Internationaal, captures the voices of workers in sectors such as textile, sugarcane, palm oil, and mining. The data gathered by the monitor provides direct insight into the working conditions on the ground.

The Fair Work Monitor collects data through participatory digital surveys and monitoring rounds in collaboration with local unions. Workers and their unions analyse and interpret the data themselves, supported by a dedicated team of data experts. This ensures a participatory, rights-based approach to risk assessments and social compliance. The tool strengthens companies' human rights due diligence efforts, helping stakeholders make informed decisions and take targeted action. This links boardroom decisions with breakroom realities, empowering workers and unions to lead social dialogue and advocate meaningful change.

Focus areas include:

• Living wages
• Occupational health and safety
• Social dialogue and freedom of association

Why is worker-driven data important?

Labour violations remain widespread in global supply chains, yet workers’ perspectives are rarely heard. The Fair Work Monitor fills that gap with data reported by workers themselves. Our unique methodology ensures we can reach outsourced and hard-to-access groups. As the surveys are anonymous, employees can speak freely. The Fair Work Monitor empowers companies, unions, and policymakers to identify risks, promote social dialogue, and take targeted action towards decent work. It strengthens human rights due diligence and supports evidence-based decision-making.

The Fair Work Monitor supports companies, unions, and policymakers to:

• Identify and assess labour rights risks using credible, worker-generated data
• Foster evidence-based social dialogue
• Implement targeted, effective interventions based on trustworthy insights
• Strengthen due diligence in protecting labour rights across supply chains

For workers and trade unions, the Fair Work Monitor can make a difference:

• Workers' voices are heard without a risk of reprisal
• It ensures company interventions and decisions reflect real needs
• The monitor provides robust data to inform wage negotiations.

How it works

Accurate insights from those on the ground

By surveying workers in the field or factory, we gather insights into the reality they face. Straight from the people experiencing it.

Anonymous surveys that encourage honest feedback

Anonymous surveys empower employees to speak freely without fear of reprisal. This safe space fosters trust and ensures every voice - even the quietest - is heard.

Reaching hidden and hard-to-access groups

The Fair Work Monitor ensures diverse perspectives are represented, leading to richer, more inclusive insights.

Covering the issues that matter most

We gather vital information on wages, workplace health and safety, freedom of association, gender dynamics, social dialogue, and forced and child labour.

It's a collective effort

We partner closely with unions and workers to ensure their voices guide our work at every step. Their active participation is central to our participatory, rights-based approach.