In today’s globalized world, supply chains have become an integral part of our daily lives. From the food we eat to the clothes we wear, supply chains play a crucial role in providing us with the goods and services we need. However, behind the convenience and efficiency of these supply chains lies a darker reality of human and labor rights violations, including modern slavery. This issue is particularly prevalent in the public health sector, where procurement processes often involve the sourcing of medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and other essential supplies from developing countries with weak labor and human rights protections.
In response to this pressing issue, a team of researchers led by Dr. Sarah Jane Cooper-Knock and Dr. Victoria L. Cooper from the University of Sheffield have developed a new theoretical framework called ‘Push, Pull, Dance.’ This framework aims to reimagine ethical supply chains in public health procurement and tackle the deep-rooted problem of human and labor rights violations.
The ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework is based on the idea of creating a balance between different actors in the supply chain, including governments, buyers, suppliers, and workers. It recognizes that the power dynamics between these actors can either push or pull them towards ethical or unethical practices. The ‘Push’ represents the external pressures that drive these actors towards unethical practices, such as cost-cutting and profit maximization. On the other hand, the ‘Pull’ symbolizes the internal incentives that encourage them to adopt ethical practices, such as moral values and social responsibility. The ‘Dance’ refers to the constant interaction and negotiation between these actors, which can lead to either positive or negative outcomes.
One of the key strengths of the ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework is its ability to address the complex and interconnected nature of public health procurement. It recognizes that addressing human and labor rights violations requires a multi-faceted approach that involves multiple actors and factors. By understanding the motivations and pressures of these actors, the framework provides a comprehensive and practical approach to promoting ethical practices in the supply chain.
Moreover, the ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework also highlights the role of public procurement in promoting ethical supply chains. As the largest purchaser of goods and services, the public sector has the power to drive positive change in supply chains and set an example for other industries to follow. By incorporating ethical considerations into their procurement processes, governments and public sector organizations can create a ripple effect, encouraging suppliers to adopt ethical practices and leading to a more sustainable and ethical supply chain.
Furthermore, the authors of the framework emphasize the importance of collaboration and transparency in promoting ethical supply chains. This involves working closely with suppliers to understand their challenges and providing support and resources to help them implement ethical practices. It also involves being transparent about the procurement processes and supply chain practices, which can help identify potential risks and address them effectively.
The ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework has already been applied in a pilot study in the health sector in Nepal. The study highlighted the importance of understanding the local context and involving all actors in the supply chain to promote ethical practices. It also demonstrated the potential of the framework to address complex issues such as modern slavery and child labor.
In conclusion, the ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework offers a new perspective on ethical supply chains in public health procurement. By recognizing the power dynamics and motivations of different actors, the framework provides a comprehensive and practical approach to tackling human and labor rights violations. It also highlights the role of public procurement in promoting ethical practices and emphasizes the importance of collaboration and transparency. With its potential to drive positive change and promote ethical supply chains, the ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework has the power to save lives and prevent harm in the global supply chain.
