The Better Cotton Initiative Sets Up Expert Task Force To Investigate Forced Labour Among Uyghurs In Western China
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Wednesday, April 1st, 2020 : The Better Cotton Standard System is a holistic approach to sustainable cotton production which covers all three pillars of sustainability: social, environmental and economic, and addresses the many challenges of cotton production.
The BCI has announced the formation of a Task Force to investigate forced labour claims among Uyghurs in Western China.
This announcement follows swiftly on from the BCI suspending activities for the coming cotton growing season in Xinjiang Province over persistent allegations of forced labour by Uyghur prisoners.
Task Force on Forced Labour and Decent Work
BCI is currently working to strengthen Better Cotton Principle Six: Decent Work and has set up an expert Task Force on Forced Labour and Decent Work to review selected elements of the Better Cotton Standard System.
Based on this review, the Task Force will produce recommendations to improve the effectiveness of the system in identifying, preventing, mitigating and remediating forced labour risks.
One of the seven Better Cotton Principles and Criteria directly addresses Decent Work and forced labour specifically.
Decent Work is defined as work which offers fair pay, security and equal opportunities for learning and progression, in an environment where people feel safe, respected, and able to express their concerns or negotiate better conditions.
In order to adapt and respond to Decent Work challenges in cotton farming, such as the those posed in Western China, BCI is actively engaged in dialogue on Decent Work and forced labour issues with our stakeholders, including civil society organisations, retailers and brands, and expert organisations.
Task Force Members
The Task Force on Forced Labour and Decent Work brings together representatives from the civil society, retailers, brands and consultancies with a strong expertise in human rights and forced labour issues in supply chains, particularly in the textile sector.
The Task Force also draws on the expertise of a project adviser with a background tackling the risks of child and forced labour in cotton harvest at the International Labour Organization, as well as its wider membership.
Civil Society Members
Patricia Jurewicz, Founder and Vice President | Responsible Sourcing Network
Isabelle Rogers, Global Cotton Programme Manager | Solidaridad
Chloe Cranston, Business and Human Rights Manager | Anti-Slavery International
Shelly Han, Chief of Staff & Director or Engagement | Fair Labour Association
Komala Ramachandra, Senior Researcher | Human Rights Watch
