Advocacy
Building on our expertise in holding companies accountable for labor abuses in their supply chains, we advocate for structural solutions that address the root causes of exploitation in the apparel supply chain.
Our advocacy includes documenting and publishing research reports on labor abuses; conducting corporate outreach; engaging directly with brands and ensuring their responses are made public; and working with the media to amplify findings and drive transparency.
Additionally, we report directly to our affiliated universities in order to promote transparency and to support them in driving positive change within collegiate supply chains.
We amplify the need for remediation by bringing violations to the attention of other civil society actors—such as media, NGOs, unions, universities, investors, and consumers—and informing them of the remedies necessary to restore compliance with relevant labor standards.
Using international advocacy amid global uncertainty
The WRC has historically advocated for fair purchasing practices and responsible corporate conduct during disruptions in global supply chains, such as pandemics, wars, trade disputes and natural disasters. By raising awareness of unjust purchasing practices impacting suppliers and therefore workers, such as order cancellations, the imposition of discounts of global apparel brands and delaying orders, we minimize the negative impacts of these practices on workers.
In response to repression of civil society in garment producing countries such as during military takeovers, or under authoritarian regimes, the WRC advocates directly with brands and the broader industry to articulate best practice for ensuring that worker rights are protected and corporate commitments to enhanced due diligence are fulfilled.
During regional and national wage negotiations, we call on brands to publicly commit to paying prices that fully absorb wage increases, preventing industry cost concerns from blocking workers’ right to higher wages.
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