Engaging with stakeholders is essential to combatting forced labor in the supply chain. Forced labor is a complex issue with many causes and consequences. To tackle it effectively, companies need to be able to identify where and when it happens in their supply chain. As part of a strong compliance program, stakeholder engagement and collaboration can ensure that no business is operating in the dark when it comes to issues that impact an entire industry. Here are some ways businesses can engage with stakeholders to address forced labor in their supply chain network.
CTPAT Forced Labor Best Practices: Engaging With Stakeholders
1.Collaborate with industry associations: Industry associations can be a valuable resource for businesses addressing forced labor issues in their supply chains. These associations can provide guidance, training, and resources to help businesses identify and address forced labor risks.
2.Engage with civil society organizations: Civil society organizations, such as labor rights groups and human rights organizations, can provide key insights into the prevalence of forced labor in the supply chain. These organizations can also help to raise awareness of forced labor issues as part of their advocacy for stronger laws and regulations.
3.Partner with governments: Governments can play a key role in addressing forced labor in the supply chain by enforcing labor laws and regulations and promoting international labor standards. Businesses can engage with governments by participating in public-private partnerships such as CTPAT and other trusted trader initiatives aimed at facilitating compliant trade.
4.Share best practices with partners: Businesses can share best practices with partners and other stakeholders in the supply chain to help promote responsible business practices and prevent forced labor. This involves participating in industry working groups and other forums to share information and promote collaboration.
5. Consult with employees: Businesses can consult with workers in their supply chains to better understand the risks of forced labor and identify ways to prevent it. This can involve engaging with worker representatives or labor unions and conducting surveys or focus groups with workers to gather feedback and insights.
By engaging with stakeholders, businesses can better understand the risks of forced labor in their supply chains and work collaboratively to prevent and address these issues. This can help to promote responsible business practices and ensure that workers are treated fairly and ethically throughout the supply chain. We’re here to support.
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The CT Strategies team of former CBP CTPAT Supply Chain Security Specialists (SCSS) and Directors help companies successfully navigate CBP’s CTPAT program. Using insights from over 80 years of combined CBP operational and policy knowledge, we leverage our first-hand CTPAT supply chain security experience and connections to current CBP leadership, so you can save time and money and get the most out of your CTPAT membership.
