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18 December 2020 2020 – Moving by far

Before the FEMNET team enters the company holidays (21.12. – 02.01.), let us look back once again at a year that will echo for a long time to come.

‘2020 will be a great year ...’, with this expectant outlook we said goodbye to the Christmas and New Year’s Eve break exactly one year ago.

In retrospect, the year actually appears overwhelmingBut in a sense that no one expected. The coronavirus pandemic has changed a lot. Plans became obsolete, projects stopped, changes needed.

FEMNET's work was also particularly influenced by the coronavirus pandemic. Directly and immediately we have experienced the force and speed with which a virus has brought thousands of women and their families into existential emergencies.

#Solidarity works

We were therefore touched and grateful by the enormous solidarity we received for the coronavirus emergency fund set up in March. The broad support of our commitment has not only helped women in India and Bangladesh. We too have been motivated to continue working on our mission with all our strength, despite difficult circumstances.

Something is moving

Because our topics have become even more urgent and clearer to the public due to the corona crisis. We campaigned for a supply chain law and took part in numerous actions to finally get the federal government to implement the project. Together with the Clean Clothes Campaign, we reaffirmed the demand for living wages.

But also the dialogue with the economy was and is a matter of concern to us. We see that many companies are embarking on a path towards sustainable change. We support this, for example with the launch of our Fair Wear Works project, with which we advise and accompany companies in sustainable textile purchasing. Our experience in this field has solidified our reputation as an expert in public procurement; now we want to bring our know-how to the private sector – with the usual critical-constructive voice.

Digitalization at all levels and worldwide

Last but not least, this year we were particularly interested in sharing knowledge and information. This is the only way to make change possible. We have quickly switched many offers to virtual formats, according to first-hand reports with our local partners, which we have connected live. Our educational work on corporate responsibility, social and environmental standards or labour and human rights in the clothing industry is now offered to students as webinars.

After a turbulent year, the prospect of the silence of the coming holidays in a small circle, even if we will miss dear people around us, may also be a little soothing.