InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – The Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI), in collaboration with the National Palm Oil Workers Union, has made strides in labor diplomacy by undertaking a bipartite mission to the European Union. The delegation's visit, held from November 18 to 22, 2024, marked a milestone in Indonesia’s palm oil diplomacy by showcasing a collaborative approach between workers and employers.
“This mission aimed to present the realities of palm oil labor from diverse perspectives while gaining insights into new European legislation, including the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD),” said Sumarjono Saragih, GAPKI’s Head of Labor Affairs and leader of the bipartite delegation, during a statement on Friday (29/11/2024). The CSDDD legislation emphasizes respect for human and labor rights, significantly affecting suppliers in the EU's value chain.
Over five days, the delegation conducted ten strategic meetings with various stakeholders, including the Dutch Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Agriculture, the Dutch Parliament, the European Commission, business associations, NGOs, and European labor unions. They also engaged with Indonesia’s ambassadors to the Netherlands and the EU. “The mission's effectiveness was bolstered by support from Dutch labor unions CNV and FNV, which have strong lobbying networks in Europe,” added Sumarjono.
Each meeting concluded with the presentation of the Practical Guidebook for the Protection of Women and Children, a collaborative initiative by GAPKI. The effort was praised by many, including the European Commission and the Dutch Parliament. Francesco Flores of the European Commission commended the mission as a “unique and strategic” step in palm oil diplomacy.
A key focus was the CSDDD’s provisions on decent living wages. "The legislation’s wage standards could lead to new interpretations in the European market," explained Alejandro Gonzales, an advisor to NGO S&D, highlighting the need for Indonesia’s palm oil industry to continuously adapt to global demands.
The mission demonstrated how collaboration between workers and employers can form a solid foundation to tackle international challenges. “We will continue exploring new partnerships with EU stakeholders to expand these initiatives,” vowed Qazal Jamail of the European Commission.
Despite harsh winter conditions, the delegation remained committed to its objectives. This bipartite diplomacy underscores Indonesia’s readiness to navigate new global market regulations, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient palm oil industry. (T2)
