A Qualitative Analysis of International Framework Agreements: Implementation and Impact

Abstract

Despite differences in terms of contents and implementation procedures, it is possible to identify some common patterns in the application of IFAs. The overwhelming majority of IFAs have a global scope of application. Most agreements adhere to fundamental social rights and contain the ILO core labour standards (freedom of association, collective bargaining, non-discrimination, abolition of forced labour, elimination of child labour); several also contain minimum terms and conditions of employment (working time, wages, health and safety). Only a few IFAs address just one specific issue, such as health and safety (ArcelorMittal)² or trade union rights (Danone). The vast majority are signed by transnational companies based in Europe, and here, in particular in the ‘social market economies’ (Telljohann et al. 2009; Bé 2010).

This chapter draws on two research reports with case studies conducted for Eurofound (Schömann et al. 2008 and Telljohann et al. 2009).