Responsible Recruitment of Migrant Workers: Addressing Challenges in a Client's India Supply Chain

Workers on the work floor

India's impending status as the most populated country in the world, surpassing China, is set to trigger a significant increase in interstate migration.^[1] The majority of these migrations originate from economically underdeveloped states^[2], presenting unique challenges for the migrant population. These challenges, including a lack of social capital and networks, language barriers, low bargaining power, and difficulties in social integration, render these migrants particularly vulnerable. In light of these circumstances, responsible recruitment has become a critical consideration for brands operating their supply chains in India.

As part of its initiative to promote better supply chain practices, a client collaborated with The Centre for Child Rights and Business (The Centre) to develop a responsible recruitment training programme. This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of factory managers and HR managers across three suppliers in India, placing a strong emphasis on promoting responsible recruitment practices, particularly concerning agency, contract, or migrant workers.

The need for this initiative is underscored by the findings from a social needs assessment conducted by The Centre at the client's suppliers in India. The assessment revealed that domestic migrant workers faced challenges due to inadequate recruitment and employment practices. Furthermore, the assessment revealed that along with migrant workers, contract workers with six-month contracts are also vulnerable to precarious jobs and are unable to avail of social security benefits due to their short-term contracts. This necessitated the implementation of responsible recruitment training to support workplaces in adopting robust and ethical recruitment practices, thereby safeguarding the well-being of workers and preventing potential risks.

Responsible recruitment training with the management team 

Four management team members from three factories underwent training in responsible recruitment, gaining insights into comprehensive recruitment policies, managing recruitment processes during peak seasons, and ensuring the absence of recruitment fees for applicants. The training also emphasised the importance of formal contracts with labour recruiters and verifying their legal registration. The Centre will provide ongoing support for developing and implementing supplier recruitment and hiring policies.

The client's initiative highlights how responsible recruitment not only aligns with ethical considerations but also contributes to improved social and economic outcomes for the vulnerable migrant population. By understanding and implementing responsible recruitment practices, brands can play a pivotal role in upholding the rights and well-being of workers while fostering sustainable and ethical business operations.

[1] https://www.reuters.com/world/india/indias-migrant-millions-caught-between-jobless-villages-city-hazards-2023-04-18/

[2] https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/peoplemove/inter-state-migrant-workers-india-policy-decent-world-work

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