Week 4 - Santa's Workshop

Annika R. Uyenco

Week 4

ASA 141

Reading the article "Santa's Sweatshop" once again reminded me how we all have a responsibility to make sure global production is ethical, safe, and fair. With globalization continuing to grow and the consumers' shopping obsession praised, it is easy for the dark side of production to get hidden behind the glitz and glamour of marketing. For many people, myself included at times, not much thought is given to the production process behind what we buy. Seeing something we like and a low price to go with it is usually enough for us to purchase it. However, if we look further into the whole story of how the product got to where it is at, many of us will hesitate on buying it.

For countries that are newly developing or developing, outsourcing to these countries is a way to provide a steady income. In the long run, with enough profit and income, these countries will be able to work its way to becoming developed. For example, Nike used to have lots of its sneakers manufactured in South Korea. Now, South Korea is not only a developed country but is also dominating the global entertainment industry through what is known as K-pop culture. 

Globalization becomes a problem when companies no longer have concern for its workers who actually work on the product itself. Contractors and subcontractors unfortunately can be disconnected with the laws and work the employees to the point of extreme exhaustion and under unsafe conditions. With larger profits and revenue comes larger competition and companies must continue to stay relevant with consumers. This can sometimes mean finding any way possible to maintain and further growth. 

This alarming side of globalization has produced another industry that focuses on sustainability and labor laws. Lots of start-ups have been created that supervises companies on their supply chain. We as consumers can also help by boycotting products that are known to be produced unethically to get the attention of the companies. Joining movements and nonprofits that support ethical production and the installation of labor laws is another great way make sure workers all over the world are treated fairly and ethically. 

https://seattleducation.com/teach-for-america/united-students-against-sweatshops-usas/