2016 August 2

One Swiss State and Three UK Universities Affiliate

Electronics Watch is proud to welcome four new affiliates: The State of Vaud, the first Swiss affiliate; and the University of Bournemouth, University of Westminster, and Swansea University in the UK.

The State of Vaud explained that they joined Electronics Watch to be able to efficiently monitor working conditions in their computer supply chains:

"Computers used by the workers of the State of Vaud are purchased via the Partenariat des achats informatiques romands (PAIR). As part of the calls for tenders, the suppliers have to demonstrate their social and environmental responsibility throughout the computers' supply chain. Today, the State of Vaud wishes to reinforce the follow-up of the tenderers' commitments in regard to the contracts passed with the chosen suppliers. We particularly aim at keeping watch regarding the respect of working conditions in the computer supply chains. For a matter of efficiency, the State of Vaud has decided to join Electronics watch, like other public purchasers pursuing the same purpose. This decision confirms the commitment of the State of Vaud for a sustainable development that aims at economic efficiency, environmental responsibility and social solidarity."

Similarly, the University of Westminster stated that they aim to protect labour rights in their electronics supply chain through efficient monitoring:

"We, at the University of Westminster, are committed to understand and manage the social and environmental impacts of our operations. This includes the procurement of goods and services, and the establishment of strong supplier relationships in order to deliver shared objectives. By being an affiliate to Electronics Watch, we ensure the protection of labour rights in our electronics supply chain and secure a more efficient monitoring of our social impacts."

Electronics Watch looks forward to working with all new affiliates to ensure respect for labour rights and safety standards in their electronics supply chains.