To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the International Framework Agreement (IFA) between Faber-Castell (FC), IG Metall, and the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI), joint social audits were conducted in Malaysia and Indonesia from 3 to 10 September 2025.

The delegation included Armin Spreitzer (FC-HQ), Anja Bodenmüller-Raeder (IG Metall), and BWI representatives Jasmin Redzepovic, Apolinar Tolentino, Wong Yan Ke, and Khamid Istakhori. The audits assessed progress on the ground, encouraged adherence to the IFA’s key principles, and aimed to enhance collaboration between unions and management at both company sites and suppliers.

In Malaysia, the audit team recognised FC’s compliance with the IFA and highlighted commendable supplier practices promoting equal opportunities for local and migrant workers. The team encouraged management to take a stronger role in supporting union organising. In Indonesia, auditors observed ongoing improvements in occupational safety and health (OSH) and noted strong social dialogue through collective bargaining agreements across three locations. A new CBA was signed in July, while another in Malaysia is under negotiation.

Local unions were urged to expand their outreach to migrant workers as a way of strengthening the IFA’s non-discrimination clause. The audits provided an opportunity for meaningful exchanges among BWI, IG Metall, and grassroots union leaders, reinforcing the role of the IFA as a powerful tool for promoting labour rights and ethical supply chains. The three parties, Faber-Castell, BWI, and IG Metall, remain committed to this long-standing partnership and to advancing the ILO Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.