Methodology

Our snowball sampling method allows anonymous and voluntary participation, expanding through worker recruitment. This enables the inclusion of hidden and hard-to-reach populations. Through statistical simulations, the Fair Work Monitor has defined a threshold to validate the minimum number of participants required to make statistical inferences. In other words, this helps ensure that the sample size is large enough for statistical analysis and can provide useful insights into the working conditions in the supply chain.

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. In addition, we collaborate with the Anker Research Institute, whose expertise helps us collect precise, locally grounded data, especially on living wages, enhancing the quality and credibility of our work.

The results of the Fair Work Monitor are valuable for workers, trade unions and employers, as they provide important insights for monitoring labour rights, ensuring the sustainability of supply chains, and supporting corporate due diligence.

About the Fair Work Monitor

Accurate insights from those on the ground

By surveying workers in the field or factory, we capture an authentic picture of 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.

Our approach

CNV Internationaal collaborates closely with local trade unions to gather meaningful, locally grounded data. Each monitoring round follows a structured process:

1. Agreement
   Partner with one or more unions to initiate a project. A local data organizer ensures the process is tailored to local conditions and stakeholder needs.
2. Questionnaire Customisation
   Adapt the survey to local contexts and specific thematic priorities.
3. Survey Deployment
   Upload the questionnaire into the Kobo Toolbox platform for streamlined data collection.
4. Facilitator Training
   Select and train data facilitators from local trade unions on using Kobo Toolbox, as well as on ethical and effective data collection practices.
5. Pilot Testing (Optional)
   Conduct a small-scale pilot to validate both the questionnaire and digital tool.
6. Field Data Collection
   Data-collectors carry out the survey in the field, with oversight and support from CNV Internationaal.
7. Data Processing
   Clean, validate, and analyze the data in collaboration with local data-organizers and union partners.
8. Results Dialogue
   Share and discuss findings with unions and relevant stakeholders for joint interpretation.
9. Communication Outputs
   Develop clear reports, presentations, and communication materials to inform action.
10. Driving Change
    Translate findings into concrete implementation plans that create real impact.