COVID-19 Is Rapidly Unraveling Asia’s Garment Sector
The article discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the garment supply chain, particularly in Bangladesh, the world's second-largest garment manufacturing country. A report from Verisk Maplecroft indicates that most factories in Bangladesh are in high-risk areas for occupational health and safety, exacerbating the risk of COVID-19 spread. Over one million garment workers in Bangladesh have been furloughed or laid off, as reported by Penn State’s Center for Global Workers’ Rights. The pandemic has led to unemployment and poverty among garment workers, and the risk of exploitative employment, including forced and child labor, is expected to rise. The article also highlights the potential for labor unrest and union activity due to massive layoffs and protests by workers demanding wages and severance pay. While some brands are honoring their commitments to workers, many are not, leading to sustained unemployment and reputational risks for fashion and retail companies.




