Since I retired from coaching and teaching in 2025, I want to be able to use my platform for good. One of the charities and organisations I like to support is the International Anti-Slavery Commission.
So, with my training as an Human Resources (HR), ER, IR and OH&S Consultant, and, as the previously elected Spokeswoman for the WorkCover Authority of NSW, my interest in helping end modern slavery, by using my HR expertise.
The role of a HR professional is to improve standards in safety, inclusion and salary/reward. While employee standards in western countries may be wonderful…there are still 50 million slaves in the world today, and human trafficking is the world’s fastest GROWING profession. And…human trafficking is still legal in half the world!
Human resources & IR/ER & OH&S professionals, can change the world:
Here’s how…
Establish Comprehensive Policies:
- Develop and enforce policies that explicitly prohibit modern slavery and human trafficking within the organization and its supply chain.
- Ensure these policies are communicated clearly to all employees and stakeholders, including suppliers and subcontractors.
Conduct Due Diligence:
- Implement robust due diligence processes to assess and monitor suppliers for compliance with anti-slavery policies.
- Use tools like supplier audits, questionnaires, and on-site inspections to gather information on labor practices.
Supplier Engagement and Training:
- Collaborate with suppliers to provide training and resources on recognizing and preventing modern slavery.
- Encourage suppliers to adopt transparent reporting procedures and ethical labor practices.
Ethical Recruitment Practices:
- Ensure that recruitment practices within the organization and among suppliers are fair and transparent.
- Avoid recruitment fees borne by employees, which can lead to debt bondage, a form of modern slavery.
Monitoring and Reporting Mechanisms:
- Establish mechanisms for employees and suppliers to report concerns about slavery or trafficking anonymously.
- Respond quickly and effectively to any issues identified, working with law enforcement and relevant organizations if needed.
Risk Assessment:
- Carry out periodic risk assessments to identify parts of the supply chain that are at higher risk for modern slavery and develop targeted action plans to mitigate those risks.
Partnerships and Collaborations:
- Collaborate with industry groups, NGOs, and governmental bodies working to eliminate modern slavery.
- Engage in multi-stakeholder initiatives that aim to improve labor standards across industries and supply chains.
Transparency and Reporting:
- Publish annual statements or reports in line with regulations such as the European, UK or Australian Modern Slavery Act, detailing actions taken to prevent modern slavery.
Continuous Education & Improvement Practices:
- Regularly review and update policies and practices in response to new developments in laws, standards, and best practices aimed at combating modern slavery.
By implementing these strategies, HR departments can help ensure ethical practices are upheld throughout their supply chains, ultimately contributing to the fight against modern slavery and human trafficking.
Take a look at this incredible short story…