Does the Amazon box on your doorstep have modern slavery lurking inside?

Does the Amazon box on your doorstep have modern slavery lurking inside?

Does the Amazon box on your doorstep have modern slavery lurking inside?

A recent investigation by Labour Behind the Label found a range of clothing sold by independent British retailers on Amazon was made under modern slavery conditions. Amazon claims to have a “zero tolerance” policy for labor exploitation. However, investigators say the retail giant is deliberately “turning a blind” eye to the abuse as reported in inews. They claim Amazon is using the third-party system to shield itself, claiming ignorance of the slavery found lurking in the supply-chain.

A forced labor business model

Working seven days a week, for up to 13 hours a day with no overtime pay as required by local law. That’s what Labour Behind the Label’s investigation found when they interviewed workers across three factories Pakistan. All said they were paid below the required local minimum wage. Most barely scraping by with just enough to feed and house their family.

One of the workers said:

“We can only afford the cheapest possible food, no milk, meat, fruits, salad. We avoid socializing and joining wedding events, even in the family, because we cannot afford clothing for the purpose.”

Another shared:

“In my house I have only three lightbulbs and two fans – nothing more, we cannot afford to provide proper education (for my children).”

Labour Behind the Label conducted months of interviews, data analysis and research on the ground. They called what was uncovered “shocking” cases of “hidden exploitation.” Lord Alton chairs Parliament’s Joint Committee on Human Rights. Accordingly he said the findings revealed how the fashion industry “trades on the broken backs of virtual slave labor.” With its estimated 500,000 third-party fashion sellers, Amazon could be viewed as participating in a forced labor business model.

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