Abused labors and western companies
By Omar1980
@Omar1980 (42)
November 10, 2012 11:50am CST
Do you believe that western companies are doing enough to insure that the factories to which they outsource their work are not abusing their workers
We know that the Chinese factory used by apple faced a high suicide rate last year. And we heard about Nike problems in Indonesia.
Do you think this is the responsibility of the western companies or the responsibility of the governments in Asia.
And do you believe that us as customers have any role to play in protecting the abused
Waiting for your feedback
2 responses
@franseman (516)
• Philippines
11 Nov 12
In my homeland Holland there are several organizations that have a close look on where the products come from. And as soon as they see that there is any kind of abuse: DING-DONG!!! They make sure everybody knows about it. This way, many shops were forced to stop importing certain products. Of course there's also a lobby talking to the producers. So for instance a big store for clothes stopped selling clothes made by kids (!) that worked up to 14 hours a day and were mistreated as well.
It's not just the responsibility of the factories but also from the local govenrments. They in the first place should see to it that employees are treated with respect etc. etc.
@Omar1980 (42)
•
11 Nov 12
You are right public opinion in countries were it matters is the most crucial factor in giving a voice for people that cannot freely express their needs.
the role of NGOs like you just explained it is essential in gathering support for human rights issues. And lobying against labor abuse will push our companies to honor human rights. If they feel that it will touch their pockets they will do it.
Also it will push our government to pressure the authorities were the abuse is part of the norm
@arizen (152)
• Philippines
11 Nov 12
I think mistreatment and abuse have its perspectives. Looking at it from different views makes us aware that everyone is responsible. The western companies should make sure that they are providing adequate and standard programs for their employees. On the other hand, the employees should be vigilant and guard their rights while working with their companies. They should not, in any way, tolerate a substandard form of employment. And finally, we, as consumers are responsible enough to patronize and choose brands and products which we know follows legalities and standards
@Omar1980 (42)
•
11 Nov 12
I agree with you. In western countries it is the responsibility of the company, the worker and the consumer. However in some countries I believe you should remove the labor from this equation
A lot of times it is very hard for the labors to ask for their rights if the laws inside their countries don't protect them and the market place is not flexible.
A Chinese worker that is moving from his village cannot afford to loose his job so we cannot expect him to rebel. He will take the abuse to keep food on his table.
