VF Corporation, a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories, has announced that it is creating a new Child Rights Action Pledge to strengthen the protection of children’s rights and eliminate child labor throughout the global apparel supply chain by 2025.
As part of its pledge, VF commits to integrate the Children’s Rights and Business Principles developed by UNICEF, the United Nations Global Compact, and Save the Children. The Principles aim to maximize positive contributions and minimize negative impacts on children.
“As we look to deepen our commitment to our purpose-led mission, children are a key stakeholder in the betterment of both people and the planet,” said Julie Sutton, VF Senior Director Global Impact and Government Affairs. “Our new pledge embodies all of the important work VF has done to date and further demonstrates our aspirations to being a leading industry advocate for the rights of children.”
- In addition, VF will continue to strengthen its child rights efforts through:
- Increased due diligence in VF’s upstream supply chain;
- VF’s formalized Child Rights Policy inclusive of protocols for prevention, mitigation, and remediation of child labor;
- Enhanced review and assessment of supply chain purchasing practices, wages, and working conditions for parents and caregivers to understand potential contributions to child labor risks;
- Enhanced NGO partnerships focused on supporting children, advancing education, and addressing the root causes of child labor.
Child rights are the fundamental freedoms and inherent rights of all human beings under 18 years of age. VF promotes the rights and dignity of children to support their development and works to combat factors that compromise their rights, including child labor and beyond.
