Modern slavery, while a complex issue and serious blight on our age of global business, also offers a significant space for opportunity, hope and life. At the core of this human rights violation lies the urgent need for individuals to embrace responsible consumer choices and for business leaders to prioritise ethical practices – practices that ensure human dignity, agency and freedom of association. Both consumers and businesses play a pivotal role.
Economic vulnerability is a root cause of exploitation in the supply of goods and services worldwide. As such the fight for freedom from of exploitation in the workplace including forced labour and human trafficking demands that fair trade practices are adopted by organisations in way that helps individual consumers to make better choices. The call is for organisations to develop business strategies that contribute to environmental and social sustainability
Over the past decade, job creation for those most vulnerable has emerges as a critical component in addressing economic vulnerability. It fosters inclusive growth and provide equitable employment opportunities and has given rise to the idea of the Freedom Business.
A Freedom Business focuses on creating employment opportunities for the survivors and those at risk of human trafficking
In the ongoing battle for freedom from modern slavery and human trafficking, the Freedom Business Alliance serves as a beacon of hope, shedding light on multifaceted business strategies as a global movement of social enterprises coined as freedom businesses. The Alliance serves as a catalyst for change, facilitating collaboration and sharing best practices among its members.
Former executive director, Rachel Rose Nelson of the FBA joined our director, Stephen Morse, for a good conversation about how to become a freedom business and also discussed the challenges and benefits involved. As a growing movement, the FBA operates at the corporate level to address this issue. You can check the whole conversation here.
“Over 80% of those who are rescued out of modern slavery and human trafficking end-up being re-trafficked if they don´t have safe employment”
Rachel Rose Nelson
How to become a Free Business?
In the words of Rachel, there is no single playbook for running a freedom business. Instead, it’s a journey of discovery, with each member of the FBA experimenting and innovating to find what works best for survivors. However, creating jobs alone is not enough. Survivors often face unique challenges stemming from their past trauma, dealing with figures of authority, peers, health risks, lacking education or job training, requiring tailored support structures and a healing-cantered approach in the workplace based on principles of trauma-informed care. This complexity presents challenges, but it also offers opportunities for growth and transformation.
Key principles differentiate the Freedom Business from other forms of social enterprises. These businesses prioritize fair pay, good working conditions, and a healing-cantered workplace culture. They are driven not only by profit but by a deeper mission to end human trafficking and exploitation.
The goal is always to try to go beyond mere process and compliance, to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable people. By harnessing the power of business as a force for good, the FBA and its members are paving the way towards a world where freedom is not just a dream but a reality for all.
For businesses, the pathway to responsible leadership entails making conscious decisions that not only drive profitability but also contribute to societal well-being. Embracing sustainable business practices and incorporating principles of social responsibility into corporate strategies are crucial steps towards effecting positive change. At the corporate level, businesses must take proactive measures to combat human trafficking within their supply chains and operations. By implementing robust due diligence mechanisms and collaborating with stakeholders, companies can mitigate the risk of unwittingly perpetuating exploitation.
KitePride
Based in Israel is a FB Enterprise, producing functional, one-of-a-kind bags from up-cycled kitesurfing kites, sails, parachutes and wetsuits. After researching the situation of survivors of human trafficking in Israel, KitePride realised that safe rehabilitation employment was essential. Each KitePride product is sewn in a safe working environment by a survivor.
Liluye
Based in Spain is FB Startup with a vision to combine ethical fashion with compassion by creating high quality, sustainable, handmade products. At this early phase, Liluye has been actively seeking personnel and advisors to help bring their vision to life. This is where product development starts as they define their market.
In essence, the business of the Freedom Business Alliance stands as guiding lights of hope for all of us, driven by a mission to break the chains of slavery. We trust that these initiatives inspire you to make a difference and create a positive impact within your organization, going beyond mere compliance.
