Modern slavery involves exploitation where individuals cannot refuse or leave work due to threats, coercion, or abuse. Common forms include of modern slavery include Human Trafficking, Forced Labor, Debt Bondage, Descent-Based Slavery, Child Slavery, Forced and Early Marriage, Domestic Servitude etc. Bangladesh’s RMG sector, as the leading contributor to the nation’s economy, may harbor various forms of disguised modern slavery.

Due to high production demands and tight deadlines, RMG workers may face extended hours, often with little choice. Many workers, particularly in subcontracted factories, report being unable to refuse overtime or take leave. This coercion is compounded by fear of losing jobs or facing deductions from wages. Though large, export-oriented factories have largely phased out child labour due to compliance requirements, smaller subcontracting units and unregulated factories have been documented to employ children. UNICEF estimates that around 1.7 million children are engaged in hazardous work across Bangladesh, including within the garment industry. Moreover, Female workers may encounter harassment or be pressured into accepting lower wages than their male counterparts. Their economic vulnerability also means they may feel forced to accept unfair working conditions. A significant proportion of RMG workers in Bangladesh do not receive adequate social protections, such as healthcare, paid leave, or pension plans.

In this project, Bangladesh Labour Foundation (BLF) led by GoodWeave International, Collaboration with Rights Lab from The University of Nottingham with funding from the UK’s Home Office Modern Slavery Innovation Fund (MSIF), is focused on building the first comprehensive, evidence-based study on the prevalence, risks, and root causes of modern slavery within Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector.