EFC Symposium lends voice to inclusive workplaces and compliance needs

The Employers’ Symposium 2025 organised by the Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) which is a much looked forward to event among the EFC’s member-companies and other business stakeholders, will take place on 28 February at the Monarch Imperial. This year’s edition will unfold under the banner, “Traversing turbulence – Fuelling enterprises for success”. The esteemed panellists drawn from diverse business sectors will deliberate on key issues pertaining to this theme under three broad segments. 

To be successful in today’s global economy, businesses must be competitive, socially and environmentally responsible, and resilient to external challenges like climate change, observes ILO Country Office for Sri Lanka and the Maldives Country Director Joni Simpson. Simpson will be making her presentations on the topic, “Responding to the demographic and social environment by building an inclusive workplace”, at the upcoming symposium.

“People are at the heart of business success. Sri Lanka’s people provide a rich diversity that should also be reflected in its workforce,” remarks Simpson who further points out that, inclusive workplace policies drive innovation, productivity, and staff retention, fostering a harmonious work environment. “This contributes to a stronger economy for Sri Lanka and promotes decent work and social justice. This can be achieved by promoting policies which ensure that all employees are treated with respect and fairness, provided equitable opportunities for advancement, and are protected from discrimination.”

Commenting on the role that the EFC can play as the national employers’ organisation, in championing inclusive workplaces, the ILO Country Director avers: “The EFC plays a leadership role in advancing responsible, sustainable and inclusive business practices. Their upcoming symposium is a platform to learn, share and advance these essential elements for a strong, inclusive and competitive private sector.”

Brandix Apparel Ltd., Senior General Manager – Group ESG and Compliance Nirmal Perera and also a panellist who will provide insights into the importance of meeting compliance requirements, cites multiple benefits of it. “While regulatory compliance helps avoid penalties, legal risks and operations disruptions and thereby ensure long-term stability, social compliance upholds fair labour practices and workplace safety. Moreover, ethical sourcing enhances brand reputation, customer trust, and employee satisfaction.” 

He also cites financial stability and sustainable operations as other advantages of compliance. “While meeting compliance requirements facilitates entry into global markets and partnerships with reputable clients, it also fosters responsible business practices, aligning with sustainability goals and stakeholder expectations.”

Compliance with its numerous advantages, also entails many challenges at the same time, especially for local SMEs, points out Perera who is an experienced ESG and Compliance professional with over 25 years in manufacturing, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. “Complex and evolving regulations would often create difficulties in staying updated and compliant. Among the other notable challenges are the high compliance cost to be borne, bureaucratic delays and ensuring supply chain compliance.”

Adhering to proper compliance requirements can also become a buffer against a crisis situation, notes the senior professional. “Compliance ensures reputation and stakeholder trust. Maintaining social and environmental compliance fosters consumer and investor confidence, ensuring continued support even during economic instability. It also forges workforce stability. Adhering to labour laws and employee welfare standards helps retain a skilled workforce, preventing talent loss during uncertainties.”

Initiatives such as the EFC Symposium, play a crucial role in amplifying the voice of local businesses, especially in the current economic climate, says Perera. “The symposium fosters dialogue, provides strategic insights, and advocates for policies that support business sustainability and growth. It serves as a platform for collaboration, helping businesses navigate challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities.”