Firms Managing A Global Supply Chain Operation Face Various ✓ Solved
Firms Managing A Global Supply Chain Operation Face Various Moral And
Firms managing a global supply chain operation face various moral and ethical challenges, such as ensuring that all partners in the supply chain treat their employees well with fair pay. For this assignment, respond to the following: Identify a moral and ethical challenge facing a global supply chain operation that you have experienced, heard, or read about in the news, including the challenge's impact on those involved. Why do these challenges occur? What can be done to prevent them? minimum of 200 words.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
One prominent ethical challenge in managing global supply chains is the issue of labor violations, particularly under unfair working conditions and inadequate wages. A notable example is the widespread reports of sweatshop labor in manufacturing hubs like Bangladesh, where factories produce garments for international brands. Workers in these factories often face long hours, unsafe working environments, and wages below living standards, which raises moral concerns about exploitation and workers’ rights. The impact of these violations is profound, adversely affecting workers' health, dignity, and overall well-being, while also tarnishing the reputation of companies involved.
These challenges occur primarily because of economic pressures to reduce costs and increase efficiency in a highly competitive global market. Companies often seek suppliers in countries with lax enforcement of labor laws, prioritizing profit margins over ethical considerations. Additionally, lack of oversight and transparency in supply chains can enable unethical practices to persist unnoticed. In some instances, suppliers may also intentionally violate standards to remain competitive, further complicating issues of accountability.
To prevent such ethical breaches, companies can adopt strict supplier codes of conduct that mandate fair labor practices and regular audits. Implementing transparency initiatives, such as publicly reporting supply chain conditions, can also hold companies accountable to consumers and stakeholders. Furthermore, empowering workers through education and providing channels for complaints can improve monitoring and enforcement of ethical standards. Collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and industry groups can enhance oversight and foster shared responsibility for ethical labor practices across the supply chain.
In conclusion, addressing ethical challenges in global supply chains is vital for promoting fair labor practices, protecting workers' rights, and maintaining corporate reputation. Proactive measures and genuine commitment to ethical standards can significantly mitigate these issues and build a sustainable and responsible supply chain model.
References
- Bloomberg. (2020). "Fashion’s Dirty Secret: Labor Violations in Bangladesh." Retrieved from https://www.bloomberg.com
- Frenkel, S. (2018). "The Ethical Challenges of Global Supply Chains." Journal of Business Ethics, 152(3), 561-574.
- Lee, S., & Gereffi, G. (2015). "Global Value Chains and Fair Labor Practices." International Journal of Social Economics, 42(1), 45-61.
- International Labour Organization. (2021). "Working Conditions in Garment Factories." Retrieved from https://www.ilo.org
- Kozlowski, A., & Searcy, C. (2014). "Dealing with Ethical Dilemmas in Global Supply Chains." Supply Chain Management Review, 15(2), 24-30.
- OECD. (2017). "Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains." OECD Publishing.
- Spring, M., & Araujo, L. (2017). "Global Supply Chain Management and Ethical Dilemmas." Journal of Supply Chain Management, 53(3), 64-78.
- United Nations Global Compact. (2019). "Guidance on Human Rights and Business." United Nations.
- Vermeulen, W. J. V., & Finger, M. (2018). "Corporate Responsibility in a Global Context." International Journal of Corporate Social Responsibility, 3(1), 1-12.
- World Economic Forum. (2020). "Responsible Business in Global Supply Chains." Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org