The right to freedom of association and freedom of expression are central to combatting modern slavery and child labour.

Modern slavery and child labour are crimes and can never be tolerated. But they are also complex problems.

There is increasing awareness around modern slavery and labour exploitation. Not only within businesses but also by policymakers and the public.

Guidance from Anti-Slavery International and La Strada International for businesses to support the recruitment and employment of people displaced by conflict and address modern slavery risk in value chains through heightened human rights due diligence. 

Research shows that where business enterprises are involved in rights abuses, victims continue to struggle to access remedy, despite basic human rights principles.

The OECD has just published the most authoritative, detailed guidance yet for businesses looking to prevent and tackle human rights abuses and other harmful impacts in their supply chains.

SMEs get government-subsidised consultancy to advance ethical trade & human rights work. The challenges and opportunities that small businesses face in getting to grips with the business and human rights agenda.

The government will continue to rely heavily on voluntary principles, guidance and codes of conduct, the promotion of good practice, and an expectation that the private sector will itself do more to ensure respect for labour rights in its supply chains.