Human Rights and the True Cost of Fashion - it's time to get real on this persistent issue

Want a side of modern slavery with that?

Didn't think so.

Modern slavery is organised crime, and no one wants that lurking in their supply chain. Yet fashion and textiles are key industries implicated in this travesty that traps an estimated 50 million people worldwide in forced labour, debt bondage and human trafficking. Twelve per cent of those in forced labour are children, while women and girls are disproportionately affected. And the problem is growing, despite many countries introducing legislation to ensure large companies are taking steps to ensure their supply chains are slavery-free.

All this is intrinsically linked to low wages and wage insecurity.

As Outland Denim's James Bartle points out: "It isn't possible to make a pair pf jeans for $20, and pay people a living wage."

So, where are we at with legislation and reporting on modern slavery today? What steps can brands be taking now to ensure exploitation is part of story of their products. Why do we still have so few brands paying living wages in 2025? And finally: is it time we built the true cost of a product into its final price?

Recorded live at the Good For Business Sustainable Fashion Summit in Sydney.

With thanks to The Growth Activists, Australia's leading B Corp consultancy,

and speakers:

Dr Nga Pham, senior Research Fellow, Monash Centre for Financial Studies

Fraser Tier, Group Commercial Manager, Active Apparel Group

James Bartle - CEO & Founder, Outland Denim

Sarah Rogan - Oxfam Australia's Economic Justice & Strategic Lead

Find all the links & further reading at thewardrobecrisis.com

Tell us what you think? Find Clare on Instagram @mrspress

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