Example in Action: Technology-Based Feedback Mechanisms

• Many feedback mechanisms rely on smartphone technology to administer anonymous surveys that poll workers on working conditions in factories and fields. Note that surveys are worker feedback tools, rather than grievance mechanisms, because they do not provide a means for dispute remediation or settlement. These initiatives are often cost effective, targeted, and safe for workers. They can also provide a valuable supplement to traditional social audits and are effective mechanisms for educating workers on their rights and available resources.  
• Issara Institute operates a smartphone application called Golden Dreams in Southeast Asia. This application offers Burmese, Cambodian, and Thai migrant workers information on ethical recruitment, including ratings of specific employers, recruiters, and service providers. Golden Dreams, along with Issara, also gives workers a mechanism to anonymously report problems or seek immediate assistance through a free hotline and messaging feature. These initiatives enable companies in Thailand, including suppliers to major retailers like ALDI*, to provide safer working conditions. 
• Other initiatives, such as Contratados.org,* use web-based technology to create online platforms on which workers, including migrants, can rate and comment in their native languages on labor recruiters and contractors.  
• Many available technologies provide pathways for reporting worker concerns and complaints, but do not provide easily accessible tools for remedying individual or collective violations of worker rights. The ILO’s Factsheet on Grievance Handling provides good practices on legitimate, independent grievance mechanisms that should be integrated into technology platforms to address worker grievances.  

DOL welcomes examples of good practices 
to address child labor and forced labor. 

Email us at GlobalKids@dol.gov.