With the release of its new report, 'Building a fairer system: tackling modern slavery in construction supply chains', the organisation is urging both the industry and Government for greater collaboration in tackling unfair labour practices, with slavery remaining a problem "hidden in many sectors".
As the International Labour Organization estimates 21 million people are in forced labour around the world, the construction industry is particularly vulnerable due to its fragmented supply chains, high demand for migrant labour and opaque procurement processes.
The UK's first Anti-Slavery Commissioner, Kevin Hyland OBE, has labelled the construction sector as a priority area, with particular emphasis given to tackling illegal recruitment fees.
The report examines how workers from developing countries become tricked or coerced into paying illegal and extortionate recruitment fees, and, once in debt, become vulnerable to exploitation. Abuses vary in range, from forced or bonded labour, late payment, unsanitary living conditions, unfair deductions from wages, withheld passports and loss of freedom of movement, lack of representation, violence, intimidation and physical abuse.
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In addition, the report examines how faults in the procurement process allow exploitation to remain hidden in building materials supply chains.
Anti-Slavery Commissioner Kevin Hyland OBE said: "With the culture of transparency becoming the norm in the era of globalised communication, having and showcasing sustainable and ethical practices is the only way forward and indeed an excellent market opportunity. Companies who opt for a model of secrecy will find they are no longer viable, as NGOs, journalists and consumers are increasingly able to hold them to account. Instead, those who lead the way with transparent, ethical and slavery-free supply chains will become the companies of choice and the new market leaders."
CIOB Chief Executive Chris Blythe added: "We are calling on our thousands of members and partners to ask more searching questions of their colleagues, suppliers and clients. Strong leadership is required, as is the willingness to take more responsibility, both individually and at corporate level.
"Our journey towards the eradication of slavery will take decades and demands collective action, as is reflected by the multiple contributors to this report. Professional and private organisations need to come together to solve these complex problems and to make a lasting difference."
The 'Building a fairer system' report was produced in consultation with a number of businesses and NGOs, including Amnesty International, Verité, Engineers Against Poverty and the Institute for Human Rights and Business.
To view the report, visit here.
(LM/CD)
