Combating Modern Slavery at Every Level of Your Supply Chain

Companies affected by modern slavery at any level of their supply chain can suffer significant reputational damage, and for some, investor action or discontent.

Published on 15 August 2022
Maria Knapp, Control Risks, Expert Focus contributor
Maria Knapp
Notable practitioner in Control Risks’ Environmental, Social & Governance Risk department
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Juliana Ramalho, partner at Mattos Filho, Expert Focus contributor
Juliana Ramalho
Kathryn Fletcher, Control Risks, Expert Focus contributor
Kathryn Fletcher

How do modern slavery issues reach the top of firms’ agendas?

Sometimes through a whistleblower alleging labour rights abuses, or through an activist or NGO making similar claims about a company or its supply chain. Other companies are aware of the risks in their sector and want to get on to the front foot. Occasionally, a client has been asked by a shareholder or stakeholder to explain what they are doing in this space.

The increasing importance of ESG in Brazil

ESG only gained its prominence in Brazil after being much discussed in other countries but is increasingly on the investment agenda. As millennials manage a greater share of global wealth, they want to do so in a way that aligns with their values.

Generic does not work

It's fundamental to assess your sector, your context and your business to determine which rights are at the greatest risk of impacting the normal course of operations. Engaging with local stakeholders offers a clearer understanding of the business context.

How to monitor your value chain effectively

It helps to have a social sustainability expert within your organisation, someone who understands the different risks that exist in different markets, but who can also scan the horizon for emerging risks.

Control Risks

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Mattos Filho

Mattos Filho, Expert Focus contributor firm
34 ranked departments
Learn more about the firm's ranking in Chambers Brazil 2022
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Chambers Global Practice Guides Corporate Governance 2022

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