CEO Karl-Johan Persson is one of this year's recipients of the Fairness Award. H&M's work to open opportunities for the working poor throughout the world is rewarded by The Global Fairness Initiative. The prize was presented at a ceremony in Washington on November 24th.

The vision that all textile workers should be able to live on their wages is acknowledged as well as H&M's fair living wage strategy, described as an important contribution towards fair living wages not only at H&M:s suppliers but in the whole textile industry.

"Karl-Johan Perssons work both personally, and through H&M's social initiatives has set a strong example of leadership and innovation on some of the most challenging issues facing poor and marginalized communities around the globe", says Karen Tramontano, Founder and President of the Global Fairness Initiative.

The Global Fairness Initiative promotes a more equitable, sustainable approach to economic development. By honoring individuals that work towards the same goal, they hope to inspire a new generation of leaders to dedicate themselves to the same issues.

"I am very honoured that the Global Fairness Initiative has chosen to recognise the role of H&M in increasing development opportunities for poor countries. To me this award is of course a tribute to all of H&M and our whole team of people working together worldwide for a more sustainable future", says Karl-Johan Persson.

This year's Fairness Awardalso goes to Robert B. Zoellick, Chairman of Goldman Sachs' International Advisors and former President of the World Bank (2007-2012), and Nani Zulminarni, PEKKA, organizing poor women in post conflict areas. The prize has previously been awarded, for example, Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State in USA, and Tarja Halonen, former President of Finland.

About The Global Fairness Initiative:
The Global Fairness Initiativeis a non-profit international organization that promotes a more equitable, sustainable approach to economic development. The work helps create economic opportunity and security for the world's poorest workers in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

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