According to ILO´s latest estimates, there are nearly 50 million people living in modern slavery, of which almost 28 million were in forced labour. These figures have increased since our last report published in 2022, indicating that modern slavery still affects numerous individuals worldwide. There is an urgent need for businesses to ensure ethical treatment of their employees as well as those within their supply chains. Unethical employment practices are linked to many industries and can range from severe forms of modern slavery like human trafficking to poor working conditions and practices that could impact a more extensive group of workers.

Our latest report identifies important findings made by our team during our Ethical Site Surveys undertaken across Europe. These findings capture the voices of 4,396 workers we spoke to in anonymity during 2022.

Key findings include:

• 30% of companies had not requested or verified appropriate right to work documentation.
• 16% of workers interviewed received some form of deduction, which in some cases was as much as £80.
• 36% of companies were unable to demonstrate written terms and conditions had been issued to workers.

There are now further challenges that employers face 12 months on from our previous report. The rapidly evolving demographic of the workforce, geopolitical tensions, changes in migration patterns and an aging population have left some industries with recruitment issues. This in itself leads to the potential for unethical practices to be adopted, whether that be in the hours an individual is expected to work or the quick and informal way that individuals are recruited.

Download your copy of the report for key advice from our team of experts on the next steps businesses should take to ensure ethical and sustainable practices in their business and supply chains.

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