The World Federation's code is meant as a model code of ethical conduct, a standard-setter for the industry worldwide, rather than a code of practice to be implemented by individual companies. If adopted by its members, it will represent an agreement that the industry will work together to solve problems in the long term. Putting that agreement into practice will be the challenge. Such industry initiatives received a boost this April, when a White House sponsored task force, encouraged by President Clinton, announced the signing of a code of conduct for garment companies including Reebok, Nike and Liz Claiborne. A 'No Sweat' label added to clothes will show that the companies have adhered to the code, which includes a provision not to hire children under 14.
Doubts remain about the monitoring system, however.
It's a sign of commitment to change in the football industry - a major corporation intent on demonstrating to consumers that its labour standards are every bit as exacting as its product quality controls. Its initiative is being mirrored by Nike, also sourcing footballs made without child labour from a new factory in Sialkot. It is due to open another five factories in the next 18 months. The nearly 500 stitchers who will line up for jobs in Nike's first stitching centre in Seokee will have to present proof that they meet Pakistan's minimum working age. The company sees a halt to contracting out stitching as the solution to the problem of child labour.