Uzbek cotton and forced child labour

Each year, upwards of two million children are forced to labour in Uzbekistan's cotton fields. Unlike most instances of forced child labour, this is not the result of exploitative landowners or desperate families, but is under direct order of the Uzbek government.

A multi-stakeholder network has coalesced around the issue, including representatives from major brands and retailers, NGOs, investors, and trade associations. Major European brands such as Tesco, Marks & Spencer, C&A, Asda and Benetton have all committed to not sourcing Uzbek cotton until this practice ends.

A large coalition of US-based investors have also taken action, working with companies, government agencies and international institutions to try to bring about positive change in Uzbekistan's cotton industry.

This multi-stakeholder network is currently working to increase engagement with the socially responsible investment community in Europe.

For information on how to become involved, please email cotton@asyousow.org (As You Sow is one of the organisations leading shareholder advocacy efforts on this issue) and visit www.responsible-cotton.net.

For more on actions being taken to address the Uzbek government's disregard for human rights in its cotton sector, please visit www.cottoncampaign.org.

Update on forced and child labour in Uzbek cotton production