Sustainable Consumption and Social Justice: Should Countries Take Action to Ban the Sale of Products Made under Sweatshop Conditions?

Abstract

This paper investigates the subject of sweatshop labour and the debate over whether countries should prohibit the sale of products produced under such conditions. The introduction emphasises the importance of better working conditions and minimal standards in sweatshop factories, while also admitting that customers may be ready to pay slightly higher costs to support better working circumstances for sweatshop workers. However, economists say that sweatshop labour is preferable than not working or working for extremely low wages, and that a blanket ban on sweatshop products could result in job losses and other negative repercussions. The literature study explores a range of viewpoints on sweatshop labour, including moral and financial grounds. Additionally, it highlights how consumer movements and market pressure influence businesses to improve working conditions. The paper also emphasises the issue's complexity and the need for a fair policy that considers employees' rights and practical factors. To improve the working circumstances of sweatshop workers, a multi-pronged strategy is recommended. This method includes consumer pressure, government regulation, and voluntary codes of conduct. The importance of striking a compromise that takes into account differing points of view and deals with the complexities of the sweatshop labour issue is emphasised in the conclusion. Overall, the study provides a thorough assessment of the subject, emphasising the necessity for ethical manufacturing processes and improved working conditions while taking into account economic ramifications and unexpected consequences.