What is the Supply Chain Grievance Mechanism (SCGM) Programme all about? 
The amfori Supply Chain Grievance Mechanism (SCGM) Programme, is focused on providing accessible channels for workers, communities and their representatives to raise complaints when they believe they have been adversely affected by amfori members and their business partners. The program aims to ensure efficient and prompt resolution of issues for the benefit of companies, workers, and communities. It emphasizes the importance of strong and trusted grievance mechanisms as tools to detect and address problems proactively, preventing them from escalating and eroding trust. The SCGM Programme serves as a recourse when local operational grievance mechanisms (OGMs) are ineffective, allowing impacted stakeholders, amfori members, and other interested parties to seek remedies and improve business operations in a way that benefits all involved.

When was the SCGM program introduced and how does it work?
The SCGM program by amfori was launched in April 2021 in Vietnam as a pilot. It's designed to receive complaints related to alleged violations by amfori members. These complaints must adhere to amfori's standards, including the BSCI Code of Conduct and Responsible Purchasing Practices during COVID-19. Key elements of the BSCI Code of Conduct include workers' rights, no discrimination, fair pay, safe working conditions, and ethical business behavior.

Notably, the SCGM does not handle certain issues, such as those outside the membership period, grievances lacking good faith, or matters with final decisions from the SCGM or other grievance mechanisms. However, ongoing cases with other amfori partner organizations or local authorities can influence the remediation process. The program encourages grievants to use local operational-level grievance mechanisms first if available and effective. Anyone harmed, including workers, unions, NGOs, and communities, can submit a grievance under this program.

What are the principles of the program?

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How can a complaint be filed?
A complaint can be submitted via phone, an online form or a chat application. Complaints should preferably be submitted in English or in the national language of the complainant. The SCGM has built-in technical features that allow complaints to be submitted in a variety of languages. However, this is not a guarantee that complaints can be filed in all existing local dialects.

The SCGM treats complaints confidentially unless the complainant requests otherwise. This includes the names and identities of complainants and designated representatives. If disclosure is necessary to process the complaint, the SCGM will consult with the complainant before disclosing confidential information. Find more info here.

Who can submit a complaint?