The report The Straight Goods: Canadian Business Insights on Modern Slavery in Supply Chains, developed by World Vision Canada with the support of the Freedom Fund, addresses the pressing issue of modern slavery within global supply chains. Despite growing global awareness, Canada has been slow to engage in this conversation. The research involved 26 Canadian companies and aimed to analyze their perspectives on modern slavery, child labour, and human exploitation. The study highlights the need for companies to recognize the risks associated with modern slavery and the importance of legislative measures to drive accountability.
The findings reveal that 76% of companies believe supply chain legislation could help address modern slavery, yet only 29% actively investigate beyond their first-tier suppliers. Companies face challenges in gaining internal attention and implementing effective due diligence. The report recommends that Canadian companies invest resources to identify and mitigate human rights impacts, collaborate with stakeholders, and adopt a long-term approach to supplier relationships. It also urges the Government of Canada to consult on potential supply chain legislation that leverages best practices from other jurisdictions and sets clear expectations for companies.
Click here or on the image below to access the report.
