Forced labour & modern slavery

Modern slavery remains an urgent and pressing global issue. Approximately 50 million people are trapped in modern slavery worldwide, with an estimated 28 million in conditions of forced labour.  

Hidden in plain sight, these abuses occur in sectors ranging from agriculture and construction to electronics and garment manufacturing. This thrives in contexts of informality and is compounded by power imbalances, weak governance and ineffective enforcement that leaves workers highly vulnerable. 

At ETI we believe that eliminating forced labour requires more than policy statements or audits. It demands meaningful action across all tiers of the supply chain — rooted in transparency, worker representation, and robust human rights due diligence (HRDD). 

ETI's role and credibility 

ETI has long been at the forefront of tackling modern slavery. We played a key role in shaping the UK’s Modern Slavery Act 2015, including pushing for provisions around corporate transparency and accountability. Our multi-stakeholder model — bringing together companies, trade unions and NGOs — has enabled us to provide practical, rights-based support that reflects the lived realities of workers. 

With over two decades of experience working across multiple sectors and geographies, ETI is a trusted voice on responsible business conduct. Our tools, guidance and collaborative approach help companies go beyond compliance — towards sustained change that prevents exploitation and protects human rights. 

Preparing for a changing legislative landscape 

The global policy environment on forced labour is evolving rapidly. Companies must be prepared for: 

• Tighter legal obligations in the UK, including proposed enhancements to the Modern Slavery Act, such as defined mandatory reporting areas, enhanced due diligence requirements, and penalties for non-compliance. 
• New EU legislation, such as the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (EUCSDDD) and Forced Labour Regulations (EUFLR). These will require companies to identify, prevent, and address forced labour risks in both operations and value chains, and provide mechanisms to prevent goods produced using forced labour from entering the market. 
• Import bans and trade restrictions, including laws in the US, Canada, and other jurisdictions targeting goods produced with forced labour. 

These developments signal a shift from voluntary disclosure to mandatory due diligence — with legal, financial, and reputational consequences for companies that fall short. Businesses must act now to strengthen their governance, risk assessment, and supplier engagement systems. 

How ETI supports companies 

ETI provides comprehensive support to help businesses address forced labour risks in line with international standards and evolving legislation. Our support includes: 

• Practical guidance: Step-by-step resources on forced labour due diligence, reporting, and remediation aligned with national legislation and the UNGPs. 
• Worker-centred approaches: Approaches that prioritise worker agency and representation, including collaboration with local unions, civil society, and experts in high-risk regions. 
• Peer learning and collaboration: Forums for members to share challenges, learn from each other, and collectively influence industry practices and policy. 

ETI’s tripartite structure ensures our guidance is grounded in reality and developed with the voices of workers and rights holders at its core. 

Modern slavery has no place in responsible supply chains. With strengthened laws on the horizon and rising stakeholder expectations, now is the time for companies to move from statements to action. ETI stands ready to support that journey.