Governance & Security
Employees are unreasonably exposed to assault, kidnapping or other external dangers
Kidnapping is closely linked to forced labour especially among domestic workers. However, kidnapping risks are also present in operations and supply chains. In some industries, workers themselves may face an unreasonable risk of assault, kidnapping for ransom or other external dangers, such as where they work in a conflict zone or where the product is highly desired or profitable.
The risk of assault, kidnapping or other external dangers is exacerbated in jobs that are dangerous, difficult, undesirable, low-paying or undervalued by society. In addition, these risks may be higher where the industry experiences seasonal demand fluctuations or extremely short production times.
Kidnapping and assault may violate an individual’s right to life, liberty and security of person. Employers have a responsibility to take steps to mitigate this risk and ensure a safe working environment. This may include providing appropriate security protection to vulnerable employees through contracted security providers and ensuring premises are secure.
Relevant Human Rights Instruments
Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948, Article 3
Declaration on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, 1992, Article 1
International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, 2007, Article 1
Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women, 1993
and Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, 1984, Articles 2, 3 and 4.
SDG 8
SDG 8.7
SDG 8.8
Promoting safe and secure working environments may lead to the achievement of SDG 8.8: Protect labour rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrant workers, in particular women migrants, and those in precarious employment.