Business networks & transnational organizations : the role of coalitions in reducing modern slavery

Abstract

This study asks how coalitions of business networks and transnational organizations can minimize labour exploitation and practices of modern slavery within supply chain networks. Focusing on the Asia-Pacific region, this work offers original insight into how private sector actors are adapting to this emerging non-traditional business threat. Findings are gleaned from a series of semi-structured interviews with experts working within the field of supply chain management. Based on the data gathered, the work offers four main conclusions. First, there is a serious lack of corporate understanding around the concept of modern slavery, why it exists and how to recognize it within a firm’s supply chain. Second, there are fundamental shortcomings of the laws and legislation currently in place to address modern slavery in supply chains. Third, business actors understand that modern slavery can pose a significant business risks, such as bad publicity and financial loss, which can serve as a motivator for companies to learn about modern slavery and how to implement organizational change within their networks. Finally, businesses were willing to collaborate and find solutions to modern slavery within their supply chains in a manner that was also sustainable for their companies’ bottom line, and can potentially benefit from coalitions that provide training, tools and coaching to address practices in their supply chains.