By Serena Kelly
'I use my life to stop the production line; I use my life to let people see you reek of blood' are the saddening words of Xiaoxia, a factory worker in China, in his poem raising awareness for increasing suicide rates among workers.
This blog highlights how companies such as Boohoo, Nike, and Pretty Little Thing can be hotbeds of modern-day slavery and exploitation, particularly for women, perpetuating gender inequality through their influence and actions as Transnational Corporations (TNCs).
TNCs are commercial entities operating in multiple countries worldwide. Among these are fast-fashion firms like Shein, whose business strategy is to produce clothing quickly and inexpensively across numerous countries. In 2022, the company had a staggering 88.8 million annual users and added 2,000 new items to its store daily, cementing its influence on the global market. The conditions in which garments are produced and the treatment of employees, especially women, should be examined.
Most workers in sweatshops are women, whose contributions to the success of billionaire companies are undeniable. However, the vast wage inequalities between workers and CEOs are blatant. It takes 18 months for a garment worker ‘to earn what a fashion brand CEO makes [during] their lunch break’. The treatment of women in factories and sweatshops is unethical and unfair, especially when compared to the relatively better treatment of male workers.
Women historically face unjust treatment in the workplace and at home. Gender pay gaps and unpaid work expectations are common, and many stereotypes persist across Global South countries. Miles explores an IPE feminist view that the conditions women face in these factories mimic the foundations of women's labour in the home, traditionally taking on domestic responsibilities. Consequently, the managers of these sweatshops have contributed to a dual burden by utilising stereotypes to enforce unequal roles and treatment in factories. Reports show that '93%' of workers don't earn enough to cover life's necessities, and many women face extreme verbal and physical abuse.
Many believe TNCs prioritise their codes over morality to boost their economies and meet increasing demand in the Global North. The working conditions resemble modern-day slavery, and the workforce, reliant on women's labour, is stuck in a vicious cycle of exploitation, making the ethics behind fashion TNCs a feminist issue.
The treatment of female workers in fashion TNCs is undeniably problematic. However, Chang, a liberal feminist, has found some positive aspects. In the Global South, women often face difficulties finding work or are prohibited from working without their husband's consent; therefore, factory jobs can be empowering. Low wages and poor conditions are prevalent, but many women view their jobs as commendable as they can provide economic support to their families, inspiring hope for female employment.
I agree with Chang's perspective, but our efforts to improve female rights in sweatshops and encourage fashion TNCs to implement better policies overseas are imperative. The plight of numerous individuals, male and female alike, undergoing immense suffering overseas cannot be overlooked. Change must happen because this pretty little plantation cannot go on.
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