Supply chains

We live in a globalized world. The products we buy often come from all over the world, and profits are accumulated by a few people and companies at the top. 

Neo-colonialism refers to the legacy of colonialism, and how economic, political, cultural or other pressures continue to control and influence former colonies. In trade, this is shown to be the case, particularly in the fashion industry where there is a lot of exploitation.

How much does a T-shirt really cost?

You buy a T-shirt that is made in Bangladesh, where a lot of the global textile industry is based. A worker in a factory in Bangladesh has made your T-shirt. This T-shirt is then shipped to your country and through an intermediary agent it is sold to a brand who markets the T-shirt and then sells it in your shop. The worker often ends up getting paid very little for making a T-shirt. With the amount they currently get paid, workers in the textile industry often cannot afford basic necessities for themselves and their families. Complete the quizz below to learn more about how the money is distributed. 

In a peaceful society, this would not be taking place. In a peaceful society, workers produce clothes under fair conditions, they have fair wages, workers rights and ownership. Workers would not be working in dangerous conditions. 

Watch the video below, and share your thoughts in the comments – does it change how you feel or act?