By George Anderson
A report published by the India Committee of the Netherlands claims Unilever buys hybrid cotton seeds from farmers who are using children as young as six years old as their labor force.
Unilever strongly opposes the use of child labor. A company spokesperson, Alexandra Middendorp, told BBC News Online Unilever "does not accept direct responsibility for the employment of children." She added the company would, however, "try to find a solution."
Farmers are said to work the children, primarily young girls, for up to 13 hours a day in hazardous conditions that include prolonged exposure to agricultural chemicals.
Moderator's Comment: Do manufacturers and retailers have a responsibility to ensure their suppliers are ethical in dealing with labor issues?
The report claims children are being put up as collateral to secure loans given to their parents by farmers. It is because so many refuse to take responsibility (government, businesses and consumers) that a situation such as this exists. Doing the right thing shouldn't be an option. [George Anderson - Moderator]