May 22, 2020

As part of the DUCIGS/Rethinking Diplomacy series on COVID-19 and global supply chain, this session will focus on how disruptions to the apparel supply chain are affecting clothing manufacturers and the garment workers they employ. The focus of the talk will be Bangladesh, one of the world’s largest apparel exporters, and, since the Rana Plaza collapse of 2012, the site of far-reaching reforms designed to improve worker health and safety. Jennifer Bair will discuss developments since Rana Plaza, and the status of the industry on the eve of the COVID crisis. Mark Anner will present findings from a survey of manufacturers on the extent of supply chain disruptions, as well as efforts to secure some protection for suppliers and workers negatively affected by declining demand from global brands and retailers. Gary Gereffi will moderate the discussion. This event is open to the public but registration is required. Please register at: https://bit.ly/2Xj0LI7 Date/Time: June 2, 2020: 12:30-1:45 PM EST