Core Labour Rights
This labour right protects workers from being forced to work through threats, coercion, or debt.
Forced labour
What is a supply chain in the context of labour rights?
The network of companies, suppliers, and workers involved in producing a product or service.
What is meant by company responsibility in relation to labour rights in supply chains?
The responsibility of companies to respect workers’ rights throughout their operations and supply chains.
What is the main goal of labour audits in supply chains?
To check whether suppliers follow labour standards and company rules.
What does the dilemma “exit vs engagement” refer to in global supply chains?
Whether a company should leave a risky supplier or stay and try to improve conditions.
What is the key difference between a fair wage and a living wage?
A fair wage meets legal or market standards, while a living wage is enough to cover basic living needs.
Why are labour rights violations more likely to occur at the lower tiers of global supply chains?
Because suppliers are further removed from the brand, oversight is weaker, subcontracting is common, and local regulation may be poor.
Name one way a company’s business decisions can affect working conditions at supplier factories
Low prices
Tight deadlines
Large orders
Cost pressure
Give one reason why labour audits do not always reflect real working conditions.
Audits are announced in advance
Workers are afraid to speak
Conditions are temporarily improved
Auditors have limited access
Name one negative consequence for workers if a company immediately exits a supplier due to labour rights concerns.
Job losses
Loss of income
Worse conditions under another buyer
Increased informality
Why can working conditions that are legal still be considered a violation of labour rights?
Because local laws may be weak, poorly enforced, or fall below international labour standards.
Why does buyer pressure from large brands increase their responsibility for labour conditions in supplier factories?
Because brands influence prices, deadlines, and production practices, which affect working conditions.
What is one reason companies cannot rely only on suppliers to protect labour rights?
Weak enforcement, subcontracting, or buyer pressure.
Why is enforcement of labour rights especially weak in global supply chains?
Because enforcement depends on local authorities with limited capacity, weak laws, or poor oversight.
Why might staying and engaging with a problematic supplier still be considered a responsible choice?
Because the company can use its leverage to improve conditions rather than abandoning workers.