Gap Inc. seeks to ensure the people who make our clothes are not subject to any form of exploitative labor practices, including discrimination. We are aware of the complex vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers in Southern India, and have partnered with a broad set of stakeholders to address this issue for several years. Further, we have developed a set of policies that seek to ensure migrant workers’ rights are respected, as specified in our Code of Vendor Conduct (COVC). 

The findings in the India Committee of the Netherlands (ICN) report will inform our ongoing effort to help ensure the rights of migrant workers in Southern India are respected, building upon the significant improvements we have seen in the region since the data was collected for the report in August 2016 to December 2016. In the time since the research for this report was conducted, we have actively engaged with and provided a detailed response to the ICN regarding the issues highlighted, and will continue to work with them to build upon the progress thus far.

As we have previously disclosed to ICN, we are implementing a multi-pronged approach to address the issues highlighted in ICN’s report. Each aspect of our approach is outlined in more detail below...

We recognize that more work remains to be done on this urgent issue, and that we must continue to focus attention and resources towards remedies, in partnership with other brands, NGOs, unions, and relevant government stakeholders. We appreciate the opportunity to respond to your inquiry, and will continue to provide updates to both BHRRC and ICN as our work in this area continues to grow and evolve.