Refugees’ vulnerability in global supply chains

A central finding of the research indicates that refugees and migrant workers live and work in almost all countries of the world and in varying situations of vulnerability to forced labour. With more and more refugees displaced for longer periods of time, businesses have a critical role to play in helping refugees integrate economically in their new host communities. This essay focuses on the nature of the vulnerability of refugees, offering a framework to define forced labour, trafficking and the vulnerabilities of refugee populations. It also provides insights into how company sourcing practices impact refugee vulnerability. Finally, it reflects on the challenges and consequences of refugees’ status, their right or lack of right to work and how safe, fair and legal employment opportunities can improve livelihoods and contribute to reducing refugee vulnerability. It is offered as a reflection and to contribute to the framework of a special issue of The Journal of Fair Trade being developed with the UNHCR and MADE51, including a range of articles and case studies to be published in 2025. The full report sets out the research methodology and explores how companies can hire and incorporate refugees in their supply chains. The wider message is that companies can do more: advocate for refugee rights, improve opportunities and create openings for refugees to decent work, as a proactive strategy towards combating forced labour and engaging in a supportive policy agenda.