Forced labor is a global issue affecting an estimated 50 million people currently living in modern slavery. It occurs when individuals are compelled to work against their will through force, fraud, or coercion. The International Labour Organization (ILO) defines forced labor as “all involuntary work or service exacted under the menace of a penalty and for which the said person has not offered him/herself voluntarily.”
Certain industries are more vulnerable to forced labor, particularly the apparel and service sectors, which often employ large numbers of women. Regions like Asia are especially at risk due to their concentration of export-oriented, labor-intensive industries. Migrant workers—both domestic and foreign—are among the most affected, often sacrificing their freedom to support their families. In many cases, workers may not even realize they are in forced labor situations.
The Prohibition of Forced Labor is the second of the 12 Principios of Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP). WRAP’s mission is to independently monitor and certify that sewn products are manufactured under safe, lawful, humane, and ethical conditions. Facilities that participate in WRAP voluntarily commit to meeting these standards and ensuring their contractors and suppliers do the same. WRAP auditors are trained to identify signs of forced labor during factory evaluations and are required to report any concerns.
WRAP expects that all employment be strictly voluntary. Facilities must not use forced, prison, indentured, bonded, or trafficked labor. Employment contracts must comply with all legal requirements and must not impose coercive conditions—such as substantial fines, threats of deportation, or restrictions on a worker’s ability to leave their job voluntarily.
Despite international legal frameworks, national legislation, factory certifications like WRAP, and brand codes of conduct, forced labor remains widespread. This persistence is often due to inconsistent enforcement, lack of transparency in global supply chains, weak inspections, and corruption. These factors allow forced labor to continue, undermining efforts to eliminate it.
Subburaja Ayyasamy is WRAP’S Head of Operations – Sri Lanka, Middle East and North Africa & Representative – South India. He joined WRAP in January 2013.