7. Conclusion

The BP4GG programmes has proven the power of partnerships between brands and NGOs to not only protect and support some of the most vulnerable from the impacts of a health pandemic but also to address social issues faced by RMG workers in Bangladesh. By sharing the impact and insights from these projects the hope is others will replicate and build on them to not only sustain the impact but also bring benefits to RMG workers in other countries. As we look ahead and the continued recovery of COVID-19 it will be important for governments, business and NGOs to reflect on the impact of this programmes and others like it to ensure learnings are embedded and any gaps in current focus are addressed. Only by doing so can we ensure RMG supply chains really are built back better and the structural inequalities faced by workers who support them are addressed.

VSCF Vision

“To enable vulnerable people and supply chains to recover from and remain resilient to the economic and social impacts of COVID-19, by leveraging the reach and influence of responsible businesses through partnerships.”

VSCF Mission

“To enable recovery and resilience from the COVID-19 pandemic by forming strategic partnerships with global businesses. Working within supply chains in Africa and Asia, we will test and scale approaches to provide additional health and safety support, increase incomes, safeguard jobs, and ensure continuing access to markets. We will support vulnerable people within supply chains to recover from COVID-19, and support responsible businesses to build on these experiences to become more sustainable.”

Business Partnerships for Global Goals is a UKAid funded programme implemented by Mott MacDonald, with support from Accenture Development Partnerships and IIED. We partner with UK and international retail brands, not-for-profit organisations, farms, and factories to provide economic, social, and health benefits to around 1 million vulnerable women and men impacted by COVID-19 in Africa and Asia.

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