Big Companies That Use Child Labor

Unfortunately, many companies still use child labor. It’s an issue occurring in numerous countries today.

It’s done for profit, and not enough responsibility is being taken on reviewing the practices of contractors and subcontractors.

The power of the consumer dollar is needed to spur change in these companies.

Understanding Child Labor

Child labor, defined by the International Labor Organization (ILO), refers to work that deprives children of their childhood, potential, and dignity, which is harmful to their physical and mental development.

This phenomenon is an entrenched reality across various economies. It’s rooted in poverty, lack of decent work for adults, insufficient access to education, and social norms condoning child labor.

Throughout history, societies have employed children in countless sectors such as

• agriculture
• manufacturing
• mining
• domestic service

Global Giants Accused of Exploiting Child Labor

Despite the strides towards justice, there are still international corporations allegedly resorting to child labor, either directly or through their supply chains. Here are the ones that you need to know.

Companies That Use Child Labor

1. Nestlé: A Chocolate Dilemma

Nestlé, one of the world’s largest food companies, has faced allegations of employing child labor in their cocoa supply chains, predominantly in Ivory Coast.

A lawsuit filed against Nestlé accusing them of trafficking children was recently thrown out. But despite Nestlé’s efforts to eliminate child labor, there are still questions about how much they’ve fixed the problem.

2. Apple

Apple, a beacon of innovation in the electronics industry, has also been scrutinized for child labor in its supply chains. The Insider reported that the tech giant knowingly relied on child labor for three years before cutting ties with the supplier. Although Apple maintains strict supplier standards and audits, challenges remain in fully eradicating child labor.

3. H&M and Fast Fashion’s Burden

H&M, a fast fashion behemoth, has been linked to child labor in countries like Myanmar.

A report from The Guardian in 2016 found that workers as young as 14 were working in factories for 12 hours a day.

Despite H&M’s pledge for sustainable and ethical sourcing, it grapples with ensuring these practices throughout its extensive supply chains.

4. Primark: The Cost of Affordable Fashion

Primark, an Irish fast fashion brand, was embroiled in a child labor controversy when a BBC documentary aired in 2008.

But the BBC later apologized for a scene depicting boys working in a factor that was described as “not genuine.”

Nonetheless, in 2018, Yahoo accurately reported that Primark was allowing children as young as 14 to work in their supply factories overseas.

5. Microsoft: The Tech Titan’s Struggle

Microsoft, the technology conglomerate, is another brand reportedly connected to child labor. The company has faced scrutiny for using suppliers that uses child workers.

They were also sued in 2019 for knowingly benefiting from child labor.

6. Zara: High Fashion’s Hidden Secrets

Zara was accused of slave labor in Brazil, hiring children as young as 14. While the brand has pledged to eliminate child labor from its supply chain, the allegations serve as a stark reminder of the persistent problem of child labor.

7. Hershey’s: Bittersweet Reality

Hershey’s, one of the most recognized names in the confectionery industry, has also been accused of using child labor in its supply chain.

The company was a part of the same lawsuit as Nestle that was recently dismissed.

The company sources a significant amount of its cocoa from West Africa, a region notorious for child labor in the cocoa industry. Despite various initiatives by Hershey’s to ensure ethical sourcing, allegations of child labor continue to persist.

8. Adidas: The Dark Side of Sportswear

Adidas, a leading sportswear manufacturer, has not been immune to allegations of child labor.

In 2000, children as young as 15 were found to be working 15 hours days and paid less than $60 a month.

Adidas has undertaken numerous initiatives to promote fair labor practices. But ensuring compliance throughout their expansive supply chain remains a daunting task.

Child labor in America

Unfortunately the problem is not just limited to poor countries overseas. There have been growing child labor issues in America too.

A story published in Eater reported that there 10-year-old children found operating dangerous restaurant machinery unpaid.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds also recently loosened child labor laws to allow 16-year-old children to serve alcohol in restaurants.

Children even younger are than that are now allowed to work an extra two hours per day and work in freezers and meat coolers.

Critics argue this endangers children and distracts them from their education.

A Call to Action: Eradicating Child Labor

Eliminating child labor requires multi-dimensional approaches, such as improving access to education and decent work for adults.

International corporations must rigorously audit their supply chains and maintain stringent standards to ensure no child labor is employed.

Remember, as consumers, our choices matter. By supporting ethically produced products and demanding transparency from corporations, we can create a world free of child labor.

Takeaways

The brands mentioned above are a part of a larger conversation about child labor in international supply chains.

Tackling this issue demands rigorous auditing, ethical sourcing, and an unwavering commitment to human rights from these corporations.

As conscious consumers, we can contribute to this movement by making informed choices and advocating for transparency and accountability.

Related articles

• A List of The Worst Fast Fashion Brands To Avoid
• 15 Fashion Brands That Still Use Sweatshops
• Is H&M Fast Fashion?
• Is Cider Fast Fashion?
• Is LL Bean Ethical or Fast Fashion?