Modern slavery in global supply chains : examining the effects of overconsumption
Kalaidzhiev, Jenni (2025)
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025053018422
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025053018422
Tiivistelmä
This thesis investigates the role of overconsumption in contributing to modern slavery within global supply chains and examines the most effective strategies to combat this systemic issue. As globalization advances the efficiency of the production and distribution of consumer goods, the demand for cheap products has led to the normalization of exploitative labour practices across multiple industries, particularly in fashion, electronics, and agriculture.
The research applies a qualitative methodology combining an extensive resource review with semi-structured interviews conducted with professionals in supply chain management, business operations, and human rights. Supported by theoretical frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8.7 and the Engel-Blackwell-Miniard Consumer Decision-Making Model, the study explores how modern slavery manifests at each stage of the supply chain, from the sourcing of raw materials to manufacturing, transport, and retail.
The findings reveal a strong link between rising consumption patterns and increased exploitation, with supply chain complexity and cost-cutting pressures enabling unethical practices. Interviewees emphasized the need for cross-sectoral collaboration and identified mandatory legislation, corporate accountability, consumer awareness, and actionable awareness as key elements for systemic change.
This thesis concludes that overconsumption is not just a cultural or economic issue, but a human rights crisis. Combating modern slavery requires a unified effort across governments, businesses, and consumers, guided by transparency, ethical frameworks, and sustainable policies.
The research applies a qualitative methodology combining an extensive resource review with semi-structured interviews conducted with professionals in supply chain management, business operations, and human rights. Supported by theoretical frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8.7 and the Engel-Blackwell-Miniard Consumer Decision-Making Model, the study explores how modern slavery manifests at each stage of the supply chain, from the sourcing of raw materials to manufacturing, transport, and retail.
The findings reveal a strong link between rising consumption patterns and increased exploitation, with supply chain complexity and cost-cutting pressures enabling unethical practices. Interviewees emphasized the need for cross-sectoral collaboration and identified mandatory legislation, corporate accountability, consumer awareness, and actionable awareness as key elements for systemic change.
This thesis concludes that overconsumption is not just a cultural or economic issue, but a human rights crisis. Combating modern slavery requires a unified effort across governments, businesses, and consumers, guided by transparency, ethical frameworks, and sustainable policies.