Fortescue reaffirms commitment to addressing Modern Slavery

Modern slavery is one of the gravest human rights issues of our time. On any given day, Walk Free estimates around 50 million people are living in modern slavery around the world with the most vulnerable – women, children and migrants – disproportionately affected.

Our approach to sustainability is founded on a respect for human rights, and our recently published FY24 Modern Slavery Statement reaffirms our dedication to transparency and accountability, as we work toward a world where every person is free from exploitation.

This statement also outlines key progress made during the year in addressing modern slavery risks in our operations and supply chain. This includes launching our global Speak Up service, undertaking worker welfare assessments in collaboration with three renewable technology suppliers, completing our forensic traceability pilot, updating our internal grievance procedure and delivering human rights training for our workforce.

Fortescue Executive Chairman, Dr Andrew Forrest said: “Modern slavery exists in every country. Every day, without realising the hidden human cost, we buy the products or use the services that millions of people have been forced to make or offer. In the capitalistic drive to deliver products cheaper and faster than ever before, it is critical we do not turn a blind eye.

“Protecting human rights should be at the heart of every company’s strategy – not an afterthought. Supply chains free of forced labour – where businesses and workers thrive equitably – are essential for delivering open, stable and resilient global supply chains and a healthier global economy.

“At Fortescue, we know we must be vigilant and proactive in looking at our own operations and deep into our supply chain to identify and address modern slavery.”

You can check out the full Modern Slavery Statement here.