World Vision statement regarding the Bangladesh tragedy

Cheryl Hotchkiss, manager of World Vision's End Child Slavery campaign said:

TORONTO, April 25, 2013 /CNW/ - "In light of yesterday's horrific tragedy at the textile factory in Bangladesh, World Vision would like to extend deep condolences to all families. As an international development organization working to reduce poverty and improve the lives of children in Bangladesh, we are deeply saddened by this tragedy, and also intensely aware of Canada's connection."

"Last summer, World Vision commissioned a national Ipsos Reid poll asking Canadians if they'd be willing to spend more to ensure that the goods they purchase were free of child labour, which is often prevalent in garment factories in developing countries."

Poll Results

• 68 per cent of Canadians would spend an average of 16 per cent more if there was a guarantee that the products they buy were free of child labour.
• Eight in ten (79 per cent) Canadians said they want to make an effort to ensure they know how and where things they purchase are made.
• 78 per cent said they have no idea if what they are buying is contributing to the exploitation of children in other countries.

"We can't argue that Canadian demand for cheap goods is fueling horrific conditions in factories worldwide. But tracking supply chains is a real challenge. It's not easy for the average Canadian to figure out where the things we buy actually come from and who made them.  However, we do know that Canadians care. Our research shows they want more information so they can support companies who are not exploiting workers, especially children."

How Canadians can help:

1) Use World Vision's good shopping guide, Shop for Change, to find out how to be an ethical consumer.

2) Buy items that are "ethically certified" by third-party organizations such as Fair Trade, UTZ or Rainforest Alliance.

3) Sign World Vision Canada's petition asking the Canadian government to look at how our trade, consumer choices and supply chains contribute to child slavery.

4) Learn more about child labour in industries such as mining, chocolate and tourism by visiting EndChildSlavery.ca.

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. Visit our News Centre at worldvision.ca

SOURCE: World Vision Canada

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