Catherwood LibraryILR School

A highly controversial trade union law was voted into action Monday by Cambodia's parliament, igniting tensions among the country's textile workers. About 100 protesters clashed with authorities outside of the National Assembly as the bill was passed, resulting in a number of injuries. Cambodian lawmakers passed the bill while ignoring recommended changes by labor groups, who charge that the new law limits labor rights by setting strict rules in an effort to prevent workers from striking. Cambodia's largest economic engine is its $5 billion textile industry with over 700,000 union workers. Protests over pay have troubled the country frequently over the last decade, sometimes resulting in violent crackdowns by the government. The bill's defenders believe it will stabilize the industry and reassure the brands for which goods are produced.