Forging a path to end Modern Slavery: A clarion call for stronger UK legislation

In a society where millions are still enslaved through compulsory work, the United Kingdom finds itself at a pivotal moment. The current laws, although with good intentions, are not effective enough in tackling the issue of state-enforced forced labour and its goods entering British markets (ILO, 2022). The UK needs to take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen its legislation, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but to demonstrate Britain’s strong dedication to justice and ethical labour standards worldwide. 

The Modern Slavery Act 2015, which was revolutionary at the time, is now showing its constraints in addressing state-backed forced labour on a systemic level (UK Government, 2015). This gap can be seen in situations such as Uyghur forced labour in China and North Korean workers sent overseas in harsh conditions (Human Rights Watch, 2023). These situations highlight the immediate requirement for laws that can efficiently tackle complicated forced labour cases involving the state and stop contaminated goods from being sold in UK markets.

The UK should introduce a wide range of reforms that align with principles of freedom, fairness, democracy, society, human rights, global cooperation, and environmental protection, to enhance laws against forced labour. These changes should involve strict regulations on imports believed to be produced using forced labour and increased due diligence obligations for companies to carefully examine their supply chains (LeBaron and Rühmkorf, 2019). There is already growing recognition of this issue, as demonstrated by a recent press release from the Liberal Democrats Hong Kong, which calls for consumers to stop buying products like Xinjiang cotton due to its connection to forced labour (https://www.libdemshk.org.uk/news/article/consumers-action-lets-remember-stop-buying-xinjiang-cotton )  

These actions would have real effects on businesses and consumers in the UK. For example, if a company is bringing in textiles from areas with documented forced labour problems, they must supply comprehensive proof of their supply chain procedures. This might result in higher expenses for companies at first but would eventually establish a market that is more ethical and sustainable. Consumers could experience small price hikes in certain items, but they would have the peace of mind knowing their purchases are not endorsing abusive practices.

It is vital to have enhanced support systems for victims, which should include providing legal aid, healthcare, and rehabilitation services. Implementing stricter punishments such as increased fines and the possibility of legal consequences for top officials would act as a powerful way to discourage businesses from using forced labour in their supply chains. Including public sector organisations with substantial budgets in modern slavery reporting requirements would guarantee thorough coverage (Phillips, LeBaron and Wallin, 2018).

To make sure that these changes are successful, the laws need to clearly explain what constitutes forced labour imposed by the state, set up a separate group to make sure everyone is following the rules and investigate any complaints, and regularly check and make changes to deal with new issues.

There are difficulties in implementing these reforms. Critics believe that more stringent rules may negatively impact the UK’s ability to compete in the global market and result in job cuts if companies move to nations with less strict regulations. Yet, indications show that practicing ethical business behaviours can improve a company’s image and financial stability in the long run. Additionally, the UK’s leadership in this field may motivate other countries to take similar measures, leading to a fairer competition worldwide. The government needs to collaborate closely with businesses to guarantee a seamless transition, possibly providing assistance and rewards for companies adjusting to the new mandates.

The necessity to confront forced labour goes beyond political borders. It is important to have a cohesive group to strengthen UK laws, which should embody the country’s enduring principles of fairness and equal treatment. The UK can navigate towards a fairer global labour market by taking confident and proactive steps, honouring the dignity of all individuals and embodying British values such as empathy, justice, and the promotion of human rights.

References:

Human Rights Watch (2023) North Korea: Forced Labor Exports Funding Regime. 

ILO (2022) Global Estimates of Modern Slavery: Forced Labour and Forced Marriage. Geneva: International Labour Organization.

LeBaron, G. and Rühmkorf, A. (2019) ‘The domestic politics of corporate accountability legislation: struggles over the 2015 UK Modern Slavery Act’, Socio-Economic Review, 17(3), pp. 709-743.

Phillips, N., LeBaron, G. and Wallin, S. (2018) ‘Mapping and measuring the effectiveness of labour-related disclosure requirements for global supply chains’, International Labour Office, Research Department, Working Paper No. 32.

UK Government (2015) Modern Slavery Act 2015. Available at: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/30/contents 

 

* Asry Almi Kaloko is a master’s student in International Relations at the University of Birmingham, specialising in the Indo-Pacific region and global political dynamics. As a dedicated advocate and researcher, Azry engages in policy analysis and strategic advocacy to promote sustainable development and global equality. Her work focuses on highlighting the importance of international cooperation in tackling global challenges.

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3 Comments

  • Merlene Emerson 9th Oct '24 - 2:28pm

    Thanks Asry for your excellent essay and for highlighting this important topic of modern slavery. You gave the example of the textile industry, but others such as in mining, agriculture and fisheries sectors also come to mind.

  • Nicholas Chan 9th Oct '24 - 8:03pm

    Thank you Asry for joining our campaign to ending ending forced labour and banning imports from areas with egregious abuses such as Xinjiang.

    The grievous violations on human rights against Muslim minorities and the Uyghurs are undeniable as underlined by the United Nations Human Rights Report and many independent news verified by journalists who risk their lives to bring us the truth.

    Glad to have the support from Liberal Democrats MP on our strong commitment to bring stronger legislation in Parliament.

    Learn more on our campaign and support at: https://www.libdemshk.org.uk/news/article/a-clarion-call-for-stronger-uk-legislation-to-end-modern-slavery

  • Peter Hirst 15th Oct '24 - 5:38pm

    Consumer power is important here also. If goods were labelled regarding their supply chain they could make informed decisions especially in areas such as clothing where there is plenty of competition. Does anyone really want to wear clothing that is produced using slave labour?

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