“Tesco and Starbucks take action in exploited Burmese migrant garment worker case, but where are Disney and NBC Universal?”, 11 November 2020

26 Burmese migrant garment workers are legally-owed 3.46 million Thai baht (approx. $110,000) in compensation for the exploitation they suffered while making products for Disney, NBC Universal, Starbucks, and Tesco … Tesco has taken action and paid more than a quarter of the outstanding amount owed to the workers and Starbucks has committed to paying. Disney and NBC Universal have yet to pay up to ensure these workers receive all the money owed to them.

… They had been collectively awarded 3.46 million baht (approx. $110,000) in compensation by the courts over a year ago, yet had received nothing…

… Disney and NBC Universal, have yet to agree to pay up and fill the gap. These brands have a responsibility towards the workers who make their products and a clear moral obligation to pay. Tesco and Starbucks’ decision to act in this case is an important example of responsible corporate behaviour and reflects an emerging industry standard…

Conditions in the Kanlayanee factory were harsh, and workers earned well below the minimum wage of 310 baht ($10.15), were not paid legally-required overtime or holiday pay, worked seven days per week in sweltering heat with no fans and few windows, in a factory where the toilets were too dirty to use…

Disney and NBC Universal must act now and pay the remaining amount to ensure that these workers don’t face further unnecessary suffering. These brands have failed in their supply chain due diligence and they must now make these workers whole.