The so-called "Ethical Charter" is an attempt to get thousands of growers, distributors and retailers to follow basic values governing the treatment of workers, many of whom toil on large export farms in Mexico.

The two-page draft, while containing few detailed proposals, calls for industry players to respect all laws and principles inspired by “international expectations.” The principles would be met, in part, through ongoing education and by reaching out to laborers, the plan says.

It pledges to create transparent and accessible channels for laborers to communicate workplace complaints. And it commits to  integrating social responsibility goals with purchasing practices.

“Aware that our industry can attract vulnerable workers, we expect adherence to the law,” the charter reads. “We believe that workers deserve to be treated with dignity, and we are committed to respecting workers’ rights and protecting worker safety.”

Read Full Article