Loss of lives in Asian factories is all too common

The Financial Times recently published an article, ‘Cheap clothes come at a price in the factories of Bangladesh’ (19 December 2012). The story focused on the Tazreen Fashions factory fire, and asked what international brands are doing to respond to the issues it raised. It questioned whether in fact ‘business-as-usual’ will resume.

In response, we wanted to highlight the complexity of the situation in Bangladesh, and show that there is a clear consensus to work together, to drive sustainable change for workers. Here's our response, published in the FT's 27 December edition:

"Sirs, your article ‘Cheap clothes come at a price in the factories of Bangladesh’ (19 December) asks a pressing and important question – how will international brands respond to the tragic fires in Dhaka last month?

It rightly points out that the cost of cheap goods is too often borne by those at the end of global supply chains; workers, their families and their local communities. What is most appalling is that the south Asia region is not a stranger to factory incidents resulting in worker loss of life.

We cannot be seduced by simple solutions to what are complex problems. Poor safety culture at factories, unreliable building regulations and inspections, and a lack of political will all contribute to these tragedies, and need to be tackled.

This is a real wake-up call for international brands. The Ethical Trading Initiative is at the centre of serious conversations with our members that source from this region, and non-governmental organisations and trade unions. There is a clear consensus about the need to work together to leverage change at a political and factory level.

Our members are telling us more can, and should be done. The call is for all companies sourcing from south Asia to embrace their responsibilities, and collectively drive real and sustainable change for workers."

Peter McAllister, Director, Ethical Trading Initiative, London