Worker Voice in the Fight Against Forced Labour: The role of multinational enterprises in supply chain accountability

Abstract

This paper discusses worker-centred approaches to the identification of and response to labour violations in the supply chains of multinational enterprises (MNEs). Drawing on examples from Southeast Asia, it highlights how meaningful engagement with workers and collaborative partnerships benefit both business and workers by fostering learning and systemic improvements. The paper concludes that MNEs should move beyond traditional audit-based models and adopt strategies that prioritise worker involvement, transparency, and long-term accountability.