BESIX at the BWI Global Conference: standing up for workers’ rights

On 22 October 2025, Geert Aelbrecht, Chief People Officer of BESIX Group, took part in the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) Global Multinational Companies Conference, held at the International Labour Organization (ILO) Headquarters in Geneva.

Focus on labour rights and human rights

The two-day event brought together trade union representatives, global companies, financial institutions and human rights experts to explore how the sector can strengthen labour rights and human rights due diligence across global supply chains.

Geert Aelbrecht contributed to two sessions, “Forced Labour, Recruitment and Trafficking” and “The Value of IFAs and Inspections in a New Global Environment”, reflecting BESIX’s long-standing engagement with BWI and its commitment to ethical recruitment and fair working conditions for all.

For BESIX, respecting and promoting workers’ rights is a reflection of our values. We believe that every worker, regardless of their nationality or origin, deserves dignity, safety, and fairness at work. Our partnership with BWI is built on that shared conviction.

Geert Aelbrecht

Chief People Officer, Group Sustainability & ESG Officer, BESIX Group

Staunch supporter for years

BESIX has been a staunch supporter of the BWI’s mission to promote decent work, safe labour practices and freedom of association. Over the years, the Group has worked closely with BWI to implement international best practices in areas such as recruitment, grievance mechanisms and site inspections.

“Our collaboration with BWI helps us go beyond compliance,” Geert added. “It allows us to continuously improve, listen, and take real action to protect migrant workers. This is how we build a truly responsible company.”

Open dialogue and collaboration

The Geneva conference came at a pivotal time for the global construction industry, as new human rights due diligence laws reshape expectations for multinationals. Through open dialogue and collaboration, BESIX reaffirmed its belief that strong partnerships between business and unions are essential to creating sustainable, fair and future-ready workplaces.

Human rights must never be an afterthought. “They are embedded in the way we design, procure and deliver every project. That’s the future we stand for, together with BWI.