The business practices that dominate our global economy prioritize short-term profits above all other concerns. As companies seek the lowest costs of production, including labor costs, many workers are put in situations of exploitation — including forced labor and human trafficking, but also through means such as artificially low wages, delayed wage payment, debt bondage, and limits on organizing or freedom of movement.
We seek systems in which corporations treat their workers in a fair and dignified way, which includes ensuring that corporations are held accountable to uphold basic labor rights, not just by workers and their advocates, but also by other leading corporations that have good practices and seek a level playing field.
Over the last few years, there has been an increased level of awareness of how supply chains operate and the integral roles that workers play in keeping the global economy afloat, even in times of crisis. We’ve also seen greater concern for the exploitation of workers within the service and construction industries, particularly about migrant workers.
In our work, we also recognize the key role that data plays in influencing corporate decision-making — that the availability and interpretation of information influences decisions regarding purchasing, contracting, wages, marketing, the development and usage of artificial intelligence, and other corporate practices.
Our work recognizes that relying on voluntary actions will not improve corporate practice at the scale needed to end worker exploitation and that mandatory measures are needed.