Despite the presence of human-centric laws in the present, disagreeable practices such as modern slavery still exist in some parts of the world. As a champion of improving human lives, User Experience Researchers (USER) takes part in combating the presence of these unethical practices by employing strict anti-modern slavery policies in its recruitment and business processes. We take an active part in ensuring our policies and practices align with the worldwide goal of eliminating modern slavery.
Defining modern slavery
Modern slavery is defined as a dire violation of human rights involving forced labour and other forms of exploitation related to work. It affects millions of people globally and can the unfortunate thing about it, compared to what slavery was centuries ago, is that it can be hidden in plain sight. Some forms of abuses that characterise modern slavery also involve manipulative practices, debt bondage, human trafficking, or incitement of fear.
Addressing this issue is a priority among progressive companies, and regulatory bodies across the world are constantly updating labour laws to combat modern slavery.
A human-centric perspective: USER’s core concepts in people management
USER’s view of workforce management lies in three valuable concepts: inclusivity, safety and wellness, and continuous improvement. These three concepts are summarily included in our recruitment process:
- We ensure that all applicants are given the right to choose in pursuing or declining an employment offer and are not making decisions under duress;
- We ensure that all applicants are of the right age and qualifications according to the labour laws of their country;
- We ensure that employees enjoy a safe working environment free from debt bondage, human trafficking, and employ fair practices
We believe in adopting ethical practices as part of a human-centric culture in making business decisions. These practices ensure that workers are given respect and a dignified approach in all company-employee transactions, promoting transparency and protecting vulnerable workers.
USER’s application of anti-modern slavery practices
In addition to the three core concepts mentioned above, USER implements several ways to make sure employees are working in safe environments.
Sound recruitment policies
We take a zero-tolerance stand on ensuring labour is done through fair contracts compliant with international labour standards and communicated to our supply chain. This includes informing recruiters and all involved stakeholders.
Direct hiring
We avoid hiring through third-party talent providers and only include direct hires into our talent pool, denying entry to suspicious entities. We do careful background checks on referrals to ensure they are not being trafficked or unjustly exploited by others, as well as keep watch on high-risk talent brokers.
Due diligence and regular evaluation
Our HR personnel, department managers, and team leads are routinely trained to recognise and help in preventing instances similar or leading to modern slavery. We also employ risk mitigation when reviewing applications from areas with reported risks of exploitation.
Consistent employee safety and awareness programs
USER conducts awareness programs to help keep employees aware of modern slavery mechanisms and practices, enabling them to spot telltale signs of abuse and encourage them to report through proper channels.
Freedom of movement and dialogue
At USER, we encourage everyone to freely communicate and are given access to an effective and confidential mechanism to air their grievances. Our horizontal approach to “hierarchy” ensures openness to worker rights and conditions, as well as safeguard freedom of movement by being transparent with their identification and travel documents when needed or used for work purposes.
USER is adamant in keeping its workforce protected and given just treatment with regards to their labour. As we continue doing business with some of the world’s largest industries and technology and community partners, we take careful consideration of the way we source and employ our talents. We believe it is the duty of every business to help in addressing the problem of modern slavery to uphold human rights and create a better future for everyone.
About USER Experience Researchers Pte. Ltd.
USER is a leading UX-focused company specialising in digital transformation consultancy, enterprise solutions, and resource augmentation. We have a steadfast commitment to innovating the best of today’s technology to promote sustainable growth for businesses and industries.
For inquiries, you may contact us at project@user.com.sg or fill up our contact form below. We’ll get back to you in the soonest!
