Delegation and networking trip of the RBH-Network

From September 17^th until September 21^st of 2023 | Berlin

Almost a year ago the first RBHs were launched and by now there are four active host organizations offering initial services to companies in home countries in the context of Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD).

The goal of the Delegation and networking trip was to exchange our experiences, learn from each other, and make the first steps to a supportive and visible networking of associations and chambers dedicated to promoting sustainable supply chains.

This was also the opportunity for us to enrich our knowledge and network with German stakeholders involved in the promotion of HREDD like German ministries, Initiatives, associations, and companies.

Besides the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, The delegation consisted of representatives from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), European Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, Tunisian Union of Industry, Trade and Handcrafts (UTICA), Vietnamese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and GIZ representatives from Bangladesh, Cambodia, Vietnam, Mexico, Tunisia, Turkey and Germany.

A visit to Berlin gave us a chance to network and share experiences with representatives from the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), Federation of German Industries (BDI) and German Chamber for Industry and Commerce (DIHK). We also heard more about Due Diligence and grievance mechanism from the company Tchibo GmbH and the Responsible Contracting Project (RCP).