Does H&M Use Child Labor? Here’s Truth [2024]

H&M is one of the world’s largest fashion retailers, known for its affordable and trendy clothing. 

However, like many global brands, H&M has faced scrutiny regarding its labor practices, particularly in regions with weaker labor laws. 

One common question that arises is whether H&M uses child labor. The short answer is no, H&M does not use child labor and has strict policies against it. 

However, the company has been involved in several allegations related to labor abuses, particularly in countries like Myanmar.

Does H&M Use Child Labor?

H&M has a clear stance against child labor. The company has policies in place that prohibit the use of child labor in any of its supply chains. H&M works closely with its suppliers to ensure that these standards are upheld. 

The company’s code of conduct requires all suppliers to adhere to international labor standards, including the prohibition of child labor. Additionally, H&M regularly conducts audits to ensure compliance with its labor policies.

Allegations on H&M

Despite its efforts to maintain ethical labor practices, H&M has faced allegations related to labor abuses. Recently, the company began investigating 20 instances of alleged labor abuses at garment factories in Myanmar that supply products to H&M. 

This investigation comes in the wake of a report by the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre (BHRRC), which highlighted a significant increase in labor abuse cases in Myanmar’s garment industry. The report noted 156 cases of alleged worker abuse from February 2022 to February 2023, a sharp rise from the previous year.

The types of abuses reported include wage theft, forced overtime, and inhumane work rates. While these allegations do not directly involve child labor, they raise concerns about the overall working conditions in the supply chain. 

H&M has expressed deep concern over these developments and is working with local teams to address the issues. The company has also emphasized the increasing challenges of operating in Myanmar following the 2021 military coup, which has worsened the political and humanitarian situation in the country.

H&M is not alone in facing these challenges. Other major brands like Inditex, Primark, and Marks & Spencer have also encountered similar issues in Myanmar. Some companies, like Spain’s Tendam, have even decided to stop sourcing from the country altogether. 

However, there is a debate on whether leaving the country would worsen conditions for workers, as the garment industry is a significant source of employment in Myanmar.

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Final words

While H&M does not engage in child labor, the recent allegations of labor abuses in its supply chain highlight the complexities of maintaining ethical standards in regions with unstable political environments. 

H&M’s ongoing investigation and commitment to addressing these issues demonstrate its dedication to ethical sourcing. 

However, the situation in Myanmar remains challenging, and brands like H&M must continue to monitor and improve labor conditions in their supply chains.

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