Browne Jacobson has forged a partnership with The GLAA and University of Nottingham to combat modern slavery and human trafficking. This collaboration highlights the ongoing global issue and aims to provide organisations with practical guidance.
- The recent discussion at Browne Jacobson’s Nottingham office featured experts from various fields to address modern slavery and human trafficking.
- The session provided insights into organisations’ obligations under the Modern Slavery Act and addressed procurement practices.
- Experts shared experiences and research, emphasising the importance of transparency in combating labour abuse.
- The discussion underscored the necessity for vigilance and cooperation across sectors to tackle exploitation.
In a significant move to address the persistent issue of modern slavery, Browne Jacobson has aligned with The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) and the University of Nottingham’s Rights Lab. This partnership led to a pivotal discussion aimed at tackling modern slavery and human trafficking.
Held at Browne Jacobson’s Nottingham office, the event invited esteemed figures such as Ian Waterfield, Head of Enforcement at The GLAA, and notable academics from the University of Nottingham. Their collective expertise provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and strategies related to curbing modern slavery.
A poignant narrative was shared by Kelsey Richardson, a Browne Jacobson Legal Assistant, detailing her experiences working directly with modern slavery victims. This real-world insight was complemented by legal perspectives from Browne Jacobson’s team, including Emma Grant and Peter Ware, who articulated the enforcement of the Modern Slavery Act and its implications for corporate procurement.
The event was a hub for senior leaders across the public and private sectors, focusing on the creation and publication of modern slavery statements. Emphasis was placed on ensuring compliance, understanding associated risks, and the importance of safeguarding within supply chains.
Reflecting on the session, Raymond Silverstein of Browne Jacobson emphasised the ethical responsibility businesses hold in addressing these human rights violations. He stated the critical importance of inter-sector collaboration in dismantling the sophisticated networks facilitating labour exploitation.
Ian Waterfield further highlighted the global scale of modern slavery as a complex crime requiring international cooperation. He praised the collaboration with Browne Jacobson and University of Nottingham, noting its role in advising businesses on adequate preparedness to prevent slavery from penetrating their operations.
Professor Alexander Trautrims of the Rights Lab reinforced the collective duty to eradicate modern slavery by 2030, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He urged businesses, governments, and communities to maintain a vigilant stance against forced labour, particularly within procurement processes.
The session reiterated the indispensable need for unified efforts in eradicating modern slavery, urging continuous vigilance and education across sectors.
