Canada votes to take in 10,000 Uyghur refugees amid Chinese pressure to force their return
GuardianJUL 2023
The federal government has taken steps to eradicate forced labor from the country's supply chains — including enacting modern slavery laws and banning imports produced by forced labor — which is why allegations of using forced Uyghur labor in Canadian firms' supply chains and operations in China are particularly concerning and must be fully investigated. Canada is committed to respecting human rights in every market.
While there's evidence that the treatment of Uyghurs in China amounts to international crimes, particularly crimes against humanity, Canada has become a dumping ground for forced Uyghur labor products. With toothless laws, Ottawa's inaction, and a watchdog with no legal powers to prosecute even if companies are found guilty, businesses will continue to reap the benefits of supply chain complexities and escape punishment.