Modern slavery in mining looms as a key risk to investors – AllianceBernstein

The mining industry is at particular risk from modern slavery. With a thoughtful framework, sound research and company engagement, investors can identify and manage these risks.

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Awareness that modern slavery is a social evil and investment risk continues to grow, putting investors in a pivotal position to identify and root out this risk across industries.

Global mining is a particular challenge: risks to people in this industry are high and rising, and they’re not well-managed when compared with high-risk consumer-facing industries such as technology and apparel. The mining industry sources its employees from particularly vulnerable populations, such as migrant workers and minorities. Many firms operate in geographies rife with conflict, corruption or weak judiciary systems. The work of mining itself is dangerous and the business models – which often rely on outsourcing and seasonal demand – can be high-risk, too.

It’s no surprise, then, that AllianceBernstein's research places the mining industry high among risks to people - both within its business operations and throughout its supply chains. And in their view, the risks are rising.

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