Words by Smiley Team
After ditching Boohoo for exploiting its workers, ASOS is taking further steps to build an image as a leader for protecting workers’ rights. The online fashion retailer has called for the introduction of human rights due diligence legislation in the UK to strengthen the 2015 Modern Slavery Act, as part of the publication of its fifth Modern Slavery Statement.
If introduced, the amendment would require companies to prevent risks and protect vulnerable people working in their factories, in line with the UN Guiding Principles for companies. Currently being developed by the European Commission for the EU, the legislation would ensure transparency and hold businesses accountable for their actions.
“There is absolutely no place for modern slavery in today’s world,” said ASOS CEO Nick Beighton, “and after an incredibly challenging year for the fashion industry and for garment workers worldwide, all companies and brands must now share the risks they have identified and the actions they have taken to ensure we can work together to deliver effective change.”
The world’s oldest international human rights organisation, Anti-Slavery International, has advised the retailer on its modern slavery policies, in-country programme work and practices since 2017.
Applauding the company’s efforts, Anti-Slavery International CEO Jasmine O’Connor OBE said: “We welcome ASOS’ call for a new UK law to hold companies to account when they fail to prevent human rights abuses.
“We hope other UK companies across all sectors follow ASOS’ leadership, and that the UK Government responds to the growing calls from civil society, trade unions and business to go beyond the Modern Slavery Act and introduce stronger laws.”
Beighton added: “We’re incredibly grateful to Anti-Slavery International for providing commentary and constructive challenge for this year’s statement and look forward to continuing our partnership as we seek to drive further change over the years to come.”
ASOS’s fifth Modern Slavery Statement details the measures taken to protect their workers from Covid-19 and how they will ensure transparency about their activities.
The company has also pioneered the Migrant Resource Centre in Mauritius, part of a joint project between ASOS, Anti-Slavery International, IndustriALL Global Union and local affiliates2; it has distributed a human rights handbook for workers in Bulgaria with local IndustriALL affiliates; and strengthened its policies and procedures to protect its workers and suppliers.
At the forefront of the struggle against exploitation, Anti-Slavery International partners with lawyers, NGOs trade unions and other organisations to protect tens of thousands of adults and children from slavery each year.
Help tackle slavery and exploitation by donating to Anti-Slavery International here.
