Modern Slavery Knowledge in the Sri Lankan Tea Industry: A Case Study

Abstract

This paper explores the state of knowledge about modern slavery and its removal in the high-risk Sri Lankan tea industry and the way Sri Lanka can move toward elimination of the practice. Primary evidence gathered through a survey of participants in the tea supply chain in Sri Lanka reveals a perceived low level of understanding of modern slavery risks. In part, this is because of the lack of education and awareness training about the practices. Nevertheless, about three-quarters of participants view modern slavery-related topics as a current and future problem to be addressed. Results also reveal there is little pressure from the dominant, non-Western, downstream purchasers of tea, with trickle-down impacts on suppliers perceived to be ineffective. The Sri Lankan Tea Board is perceived to be well placed to build future education and training programs about addressing modern slavery risk which may prove crucial to the industry's future prospects.