A Human Rights Challenge
The Garment Industry in Bangladesh: A Human Rights Challenge
Keeping the paper by Peter and Sarah as a frame of reference, please submit a compelling essay (3500 – 4000 words + or – 10%). Please ensure that you:
- Discuss the key sustainability issues prevalent in the garment industry. Demonstrate a general understanding of the UN Sustainable development goals and the challenges faced in implementation of sustainable initiatives in the apparel industry. (14 Marks)
Firstly, start with an academic definition of sustainability and demonstrate a general understanding of the term. Then use the case as a point of reference, highlighting the issues reported (e.g. human rights violation – child labor, gender inequality, minimum wage, working conditions etc.). Basically, highlight the current state of the garment industry in Bangladesh today. Articles, both academic and non-academic can assist here. Students should discuss the challenges of implementation of these initiatives in the in the garment industry. (Such as political agenda, corruption, stage of economic growth, absolute poverty) and the key areas that need immediate attention. Discuss the UN SDGs in brief and link their objective to this discussion.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the effects of sustainability on supply chains in the apparel industry by evaluating some of the global best practices in ethical sourcing implemented by organisations in the apparel industry. (14 Marks)
To begin with, what are supply chains? What is sustainable procurement or SCM? In the apparel supply chains what responsibility do fast fashion firms have ? What is the responsibility of their supply chain team? Should they be promoting recycling? Should they do business with ethical suppliers? In other words, should firms ensure that they conduct business with suppliers who treat employees fairly or treat them with dignity? And what about whether the goods and services sourced are ethical? These questions can be addressed.
You will have to read about some of the market leaders who have adopted sustainable practices/initiatives in the apparel industry to be able to address this part. You can start by discussing the current situation pertaining to ethical sourcing in the apparel industry https://www.fibre2fashion.com/industry-article/6737/doing-something-different.
Global best practices (read : https://www.sgtgroup.net/textile-quality-management-blog/4-brands-going-the-extra-mile-to-ensure-ethical-sourcing) https://www.just-style.com/analysis/steps-to-a-more-sustainable-fashion-sourcing-model_id136707.aspx
Some companies that are leaders in ethical sourcing – Patagonia, Everlane, Levi’s, Polo RL
You can read through the Ethical Fashion Report. https://www.business-humanrights.org/sites/default/files/documents/FashionReport_2019_9-April-19-FINAL.pdf
