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Utilitarian ethics would evaluate actions based on whether the overall consequences of labour exploitation, such as cost reduction, outweigh the negative impacts on workers and society. It highlights the need to consider the greatest good for the most significant number when addressing this ethical issue.

To do this, the corporation would need to assess the well-being of the forced labourers, ensuring they have good working conditions and fixed wages. Forced labour is also used to provide short-term financial gains due to the reduced labour costs; however, in the long run, the negative publicity and legal consequences could damage the company's reputation. Utilitarianism emphasizes long-term sustainability, so using forced labour could make the company no longer profitable.

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Virtue ethics focuses on developing good character traits and encourages cultivating virtues such as justice and integrity. Applying virtue ethics to labour exploitation involves fostering a corporate culture that values fair treatment of workers and ethical business practices. There are several approaches to this, including acknowledging the presence of forced labour, compensating the affected workers properly, and investing in improvement programs to reduce the risk of forced labour.

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CSR emphasizes the ethical responsibility of businesses to operate in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. In the context of labor exploitation, CSR calls for a commitment to respecting the inherent dignity and rights of workers, regardless of potential economic gains, aligning with SDG 8 goals.

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Forced labour in agriculture is an ethical challenge that requires a comprehensive examination of its global dimensions. This padlet aims to delve into this issue's diverse aspects, explore its ethical dimensions, and share insights from the peer-reviewed journal article, "Risk of forced labour embedded in the US fruit and vegetable supply" by Nicole Blackstone. It also aims to show how it aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Ethics, foundational in the business environment, underscores the significance of humane working conditions and equitable practices in pursuing economic prosperity.

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The importance of ethics in business in today's globalised economy is undeniable. As we explore the complexities of forced labour in agriculture, we must recognise the ethical implications for individuals, businesses, and the broader community, emphasising the need for ethical considerations in every facet of the business environment.

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Forced labor in agriculture emerges as a formidable impediment to the realization of SDG 8. Exploitative practices starkly undermine the goal of providing decent work and sustaining economic growth. Achieving SDG 8 necessitates a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of forced labor, promotes ethical business practices, and fosters collaboration between stakeholders. The eradication of forced labor is integral to creating a world where decent work is accessible to all, aligning with the broader sustainable development agenda.

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The study highlights the gravity of the issue and delves into the experiences of those subjected to forced labour in agriculture. It addresses systemic challenges perpetuating exploitative practices and emphasizes the need for a concerted effort to address them. The journal article is valuable in understanding the complexities of forced labour in agriculture and its implications for ethical business practices. This aligns with SDG 8, which promotes sustained economic growth while ensuring decent work for all.

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This video sheds light on another side of forced labour, the trafficking of immigrants, sending them into modern day slavery.

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The Hidden Reality of Labor Trafficking in the U.S. | "Trafficked in America" | FRONTLINE

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Blackstone, N.T., Norris, C.B., Robbins, T. et al. Risk of forced labour embedded in the US fruit and vegetable supply. Nat Food 2, 692–699 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s43016-021-00339-0

FRONTLINE PBS | Official. (2018). The Hidden Reality of Labor Trafficking in the U.S. | “Trafficked in America” | FRONTLINE. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-30v3FP4J4

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In conclusion, the peer-reviewed journal article "Risk of forced labour embedded in the U.S. Fruit and Vegetable Supply" emphasizes the need for further ethical considerations and decisive actions in the business environment. The alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8 also emphasizes ethical business practices with decent work and economic growth, along with achieving SDG 8.7 to eradicate forced labour, and demands attention from policymakers, companies, and consumers alike. The journal's revelation that 85% of U.S. fruits and vegetables are at high risk of utilizing forced labour underscores the gravity of the situation. It challenges all stakeholders to take action.

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The journal revealed that 1.8 million workers globally have been subjected to forced labour in agriculture and fishing. The article is based on data from 2021. It emphasizes the need to eradicate exploitative working conditions in order to meet sustainable development goal 8.7, which is to take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labour and end modern slavery and human trafficking.

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The journal also points out the lack of action taken by policymakers, companies, farmers, workers, and communities. Consumers do not have much choice in the matter either. According to the journal article, 85% of the fruits and vegetables produced in the US were recorded as being at high risk of using forced labour. However, consumers can purchase products produced under the Fair Food Program and help mitigate the risks.

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Ethical theories, such as corporate social responsibility (CSR), virtue ethics, and utilitarianism, offer valuable frameworks for addressing forced labour. CSR calls for businesses to operate in socially responsible ways, respecting the dignity and rights of workers. Virtue ethics advocates for cultivating a corporate culture that values fair treatment and ethical practices. Utilitarianism urges evaluating actions based on their overall consequences, emphasizing the long-term sustainability of ethical practices.

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As consumers, we can demand change and make a difference. Making informed choices and supporting brands prioritising ethical development and responsibility can significantly mitigate the risks associated with forced labour. By embracing ethical considerations, businesses can play a pivotal role in fostering a sustainable and equitable global economy.