In most countries, adolescents can legally work from the age of 15 or 16, or, in special circumstances, from age 14. Yet millions of adolescents continue to work in exploitative and hazardous conditions in global supply chains and informal settings.

 

Young workers ages 14 to 17 can be particularly vulnerable because of limited work experience and training, limited awareness of their rights, economic necessity, and a lack of bargaining power. These circumstances can lead them to accept dangerous tasks or jobs with poor working conditions. Their families may also depend on the income they provide, making remediation particularly complex.

GoodWeave’s research in Bangladesh found a high rate of 14 to 17-year-old workers employed in the apparel sector. All of those surveyed reported working longer than five hours per day, the limit allowed by law. Nearly one-third (31%) reported being injured or falling ill at work, and 24% said they were pressured to continue working despite their injuries.

GoodWeave developed guidance to help companies protect adolescent workers in the garment sector while preventing child labor and complying with national law and international labor standards. It provides measures companies can put in place to protect young workers in their supply chains, including approaches to legal employment and remediation.

LEARN MORE AND READ THE FULL GUIDANCE