In today’s globalized economy, the complex web of supply chains plays a crucial role in meeting the growing demands for goods and services. However, the dark side of these supply chains often goes unnoticed – the exploitation of workers, human rights violations, and forced labor. This is particularly concerning in the public health sector, where the procurement of goods and services is crucial in saving lives. In the face of such challenges, a new theoretical framework, ‘Push, Pull, Dance’, has been proposed by Olga Martin-Ortega, Martina Trusgnach, and Cindy Berman. This framework seeks to reimagine ethical supply chains in public health procurement, with the goal of preventing harm and protecting human rights.
The ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework is based on the idea that to tackle human and labor rights violations, including modern slavery, in public health procurement, there needs to be a multi-stakeholder approach. It recognizes the important role of three key actors – the pusher, the puller, and the dancer. The pusher refers to the buyer or procurer of goods and services, the puller refers to the supplier, and the dancer refers to the labor force. By understanding the interactions and dynamics between these actors, the framework aims to facilitate a more ethical and responsible supply chain.
The pusher, or the buyer, has the power to push for change by setting ethical standards for procurement and holding suppliers accountable for their actions. This can be achieved through the use of ethical codes, audits, and certification schemes. The puller, or the supplier, has the power to pull for change by improving their own practices and those of their subcontractors. They can do this by adopting responsible and transparent sourcing practices, implementing fair labor policies, and conducting regular audits. Finally, the dancer, or the labor force, has the power to dance for change by being educated and empowered to demand their rights and raise awareness about labor and human rights issues. This can be achieved through training programs, worker representation, and the establishment of grievance mechanisms.
The ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework offers a holistic approach to tackling the complex issue of labor and human rights violations in public health procurement. It recognizes the interdependence and responsibility of all actors involved in the supply chain and encourages collaboration and cooperation to achieve ethical and responsible procurement practices.
One of the key strengths of this framework is its flexibility and adaptability to different contexts. It can be applied to various industries and sectors, not just limited to public health procurement. The framework also takes into account the power dynamics between the actors, acknowledging the varying levels of influence and control they have over the supply chain. This makes it a more realistic and effective approach to addressing human and labor rights violations.
Moreover, the ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework goes beyond traditional approaches to supply chain management, which often focus on compliance and risk management. It recognizes the importance of not only preventing harm but also promoting positive change through the empowerment of workers and the improvement of labor conditions. By encouraging all actors to work together towards a common goal, the framework aims to create a more sustainable and ethical supply chain that benefits all stakeholders involved.
Implementing the ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework in public health procurement has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of workers and their communities. By ensuring that goods and services are procured ethically, lives can be saved and harm can be prevented. It also sends a powerful message to the global community that the health and well-being of workers and the protection of human rights are paramount.
In conclusion, the ‘Push, Pull, Dance’ framework offers a new perspective on how to address human and labor rights violations in public health procurement. By recognizing the interdependence and power dynamics between actors in the supply chain, it encourages collaboration and responsibility in achieving ethical and responsible procurement practices. As we move towards a more sustainable and ethical future, it is essential that we embrace such frameworks that promote positive change and strive towards a fairer and more just world for all. Let us push, pull, and dance together for a better tomorrow.
