SOMO, August 2003

The Centre for Research on Multinational Corporations (SOMO) has developed a terminology guide of commonly used terms in the current field of monitoring and verification of codes of labor practice in the garment and sportswear industries. This guide was written in the context of a joint project on European monitoring and verification initiatives involving SOMO, the Clean Clothes Campaign (CCC), the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) and the Fair Wear Foundation (FWF). Many other organizations and individuals have provided valuable feedback. Funding for this terminology guide was made possible through a grant from the European Commission (DG Employment and Social Affairs).

The aim of this terminology guide is to clearly define key concepts in order to harmonize terminology and thereby better facilitate debate and improve the quality of work being done in relation to monitoring and verification. Because the field of monitoring and verification is evolving it is clear that terms themselves will evolve and will come in and out of usage. The appendix, which includes some insights into current debates regarding the usage of terms (audit, stakeholder, and verification), reflects this. Therefore this terminology guide is seen as a dynamic document that needs to be regularly updated. Please send your comments to: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The terminology guide is now available in:

• 137 kb) English
• 253 kb) French
• 284 kb) Spanish
• German translation will be published in September 2003