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Briefing

17 Oct 2019

KnowTheChain Investor Snapshot: Forced labour in the construction sector

Shutterstock (purchased)

Construction is a rapidly growing sector globally, with China, India, and the United States forecast to be the largest markets by 2030.3 The UN estimates that by 2025, 68% of the world population will live in urban areas, up from 55% today, which will require significant construction efforts. As part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, projects worth more than US$500 billion have been or are being built. 

An estimated 7% of the global workforce is employed in the construction sector,6 and the Gulf’s construction sector alone employs around 10 million workers. Responsible investors have a role to play in ensuring this growth doesn’t increase the risk of workers being forced into exploitation and abuse.