Latest modern slavery fight updates - FreedomUnited.org

Are Canadian retailers ready for Bill S-211?

  • Published on
    October 27, 2023
  • Category:
    Forced Labor, Law & Policy, Supply Chain
Hero Banner

Bill S-211 is Canada’s new supply chain law, officially known as the “Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act,” and it is expected to come into force on January 1, 2024. The Act places the onus on the brands, retailers, and importers to identify and prevent forced and child labor within their supply chains, and according to Retail TouchPoints, it will be very challenging.

Significance of Bill S-211

Canada has been complacent regarding forced labor in several of its supply chains. This piece of legislation demonstrates an evident commitment to eradicating modern slavery. Any industry, both domestic and international, must adhere to this law if they meet at least two of the three thresholds: CAD $40 million in gross worldwide revenues, $20 million in assets, or an average of 250 employees or more.

The companies that meet this criterion must comply with the reporting obligations that make up the first part of the Act. Entities are to submit a report to the Minister of Public Safety on information about their policies, procedures, risk assessments, and remedial actions taken to address any identified issues. In addition to submitting the report, the entity must make the report available to the public by publishing it in an obvious place on its website, distributing the report to each shareholder, and sharing the report with its annual financial statements.

Businesses not complying with these requirements will be fined up to $250,000, and business leaders will be held personally liable for any company offenses. “If that language strikes fear in chief executives, it’s meant to,” reports Rejean Provost of Retail Touchpoints.

Meeting the challenge

“Complying with the law will pose considerable challenges, especially for brands and retailers that must navigate complex global supply chains of hundreds of suppliers… supply chain managers will need to establish robust systems and processes to identify and address any instances of modern slavery or forced labor within their supply chains. This involved enhanced supplier vetting, auditing, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance and ethical practices.” – Rajean Provost, Retail TouchPoints

Challenging or not, Bill S-211 is a necessary measure to ensure that Canadian entities do their due diligence and ensure that their sourcing practices and operations are free of forced labor – for good.

Subscribe

Freedom United is interested in hearing from our community and welcomes relevant, informed comments, advice, and insights that advance the conversation around our campaigns and advocacy. We value inclusivity and respect within our community. To be approved, your comments should be civil.

stop icon A few things we do not tolerate: comments that promote discrimination, prejudice, racism, or xenophobia, as well as personal attacks or profanity. We screen submissions in order to create a space where the entire Freedom United community feels safe to express and exchange thoughtful opinions.

Notify of
guest
2 Comments
Most Voted
Newest Oldest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Robert
Robert
11 months ago

The Western oligarchy corporate profit gouging greediness needs to be cleansed to stop exploitation from happening in other countries and at home.

A. Zavala
A. Zavala
10 months ago

This bill has a little impact if it’s coordinate with other countries in the world.

This week

Florida depends on exploited incarcerated workers for Hurricane Helene recovery support

Florida is once again turning to forced prison labor for essential public services. This time the state needs help clearing debris following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently boasted the use of what he called “low-security inmates” to manage cleanup operations. But how does the Sunshine State treat the people who are providing this critical service? Trapped in debt as Florida saves money As Florida

| Wednesday October 2, 2024

Read more