Oslo, November 27, 2024 – A new report from the Uyghur Transitional Justice Database (UTJD) sheds light on significant challenges related to forced labor in the supply chains of the Norwegian solar panel industry. The report, “Uyghur Forced Labor in the Norwegian Solar Panel Industry”, reveals how Norwegian companies may be linked to human rights violations through supply chains connected to East Turkistan (Xinjiang, China).
Norwegian Companies and the Transparency Act
The report examines how Norwegian solar producers comply with the Transparency Act, which requires companies to ensure ethical procurement and safe working conditions. An analysis of 25 companies uncovered significant shortcomings in transparency, due diligence, and measures to avoid forced labor.
A Crucial Contribution to Sustainable Development
Norwegian solar energy plays a key role in the green transition, but the report highlights that sustainable development must also be grounded in respect for human rights. This underscores the pressure on Norwegian companies to ensure ethical and responsible supply chains.
Launch and Panel Discussion
The report will be launched during a panel discussion at Litteraturhuset in Oslo (Kverneland Room, 2nd floor) on November 27, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Panel participants will include representatives from Statkraft, Ethical Trade Norway, and human rights experts. The discussion will focus on how Norwegian companies can address the challenges of forced labor in their global supply chains.
This report makes a significant contribution to the debate on how Norway can combine sustainable energy production with ethical responsibility. We encourage both the business community and the public to read the report and participate in the discussion on how to combat forced labor globally.
Contact for more information:
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