 Most industries exploit the advantages of globalization—specifically, low labor costs. Recently, however, major textile manufacturers have come under increasing pressure from fair trade activists and NGOs. This program studies the complex mix of economic forces, corporate policies, and social conditions that go into the production of everyday consumer goods, especially apparel items. Shedding light on the policies of adidas, H&M, and other key players in the global textiles market, the program examines the circumstances under which sports shoes and T-shirts are produced in countries like Indonesia, India, and Turkey. Viewers will gain insight into labor practices that have improved but remain troublesome for many workers. (45 minutes)
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