The True Cost of Low-Cost Fashion: Reflecting on Child Labour
In recent years, the world of e-commerce has seen an increasing proliferation of platforms offering products at bargain prices. Many of us, attracted by the opportunity to renew our wardrobes for a pittance, have succumbed to brands like Shein, spending as little as EUR 50 to fill our wardrobes each season. But what is behind this low-cost, fast-consumption fashion?
On 12 June, the World Day against Child Labour Exploitation, we want to reflect on the impact of these consumer behaviours.
Temu, for example, has quickly established itself on the e-commerce scene with more than 20 million downloads in one year, promoting itself with the slogan ‘Buy like a Millionaire’ and gaining a position among the most visited sites in France.
But how does Temu maintain such low prices? The answer lies in practices that deserve critical reflection:
- Production costs cut to the bone.
- Aggressive marketing via influencers.
- Extensive advertising on social media.
These tactics, unfortunately, often result in unacceptable working conditions, such as forced labour with gruelling hours of more than 75 hours per week, the use of cheap, environmentally harmful materials and, most tragically, the use of child labour. Children, deprived of their childhood and educational opportunities, are exploited to keep production costs low.
We at Social Ads take a stand on these issues, urging consumers to be more conscious in their choices. We firmly believe that change starts with information and informed purchasing decisions. If we want to break out of this vicious cycle of unsustainable consumption, it is essential to assess the origin and practices behind each product. Choosing not to support companies that exploit child labour is a fundamental step towards a fairer and more sustainable future.
The history of child labour in low-cost fashion is a stain on the fabric of our society that must be removed.
As consumers, we have the power and responsibility to make a difference. Every piece of clothing we choose not to buy from these companies is a step towards freeing a child from oppression.
