DENVER – May 25, 2021 – VF Corporation (NYSE: VFC), a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories, has announced that it is creating a new Child Rights Action Pledge to strengthen the protection of children’s rights and eliminate child labor throughout the global apparel supply chain by 2025.
The United Nations (UN) has declared 2021 the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labor. As one of the world’s largest apparel and footwear companies, VF has been an ardent advocate for children’s rights and the elimination of child labor in the global apparel supply chain.
According to the International Labour Organization, although child labor has decreased by 38% in the last decade, 152 million children are still in child labor. VF recognizes there is much more work that needs to be done and the increased actions will further strengthen the company’s commitment.
“As we look to deepen our commitment to our purpose-led mission, children are a key stakeholder in the betterment of both people and the planet,” said Julie Sutton, VF Senior Director Global Impact and Government Affairs. “Our new pledge embodies all of the important work VF has done to date and further demonstrates our aspirations to being a leading industry advocate for the rights of children.”
As part of its pledge, VF commits to integrate the Children’s Rights and Business Principles developed by UNICEF, the United Nations Global Compact and Save the Children. The Principles aim to maximize positive contributions and minimize negative impacts on children.
In addition, VF will continue to strengthen its child rights efforts through:
- Increased due diligence in VF’s upstream suppy chain;
- VF’s formalized Child Rights Policy inclusive of protocols for prevention, mitigation and remediation of child labor;
- Enhanced review and assessment of supply chain purchasing practices, wages and working conditions for parents and caregivers to understand potential contributions to child labor risks;
- Enhanced NGO partnerships focused on supporting children, advancing education and addressing the root causes of child labor.
Child rights are the fundamental freedoms and inherent rights of all human beings under 18 years of age. VF promotes the rights and dignity of children to support their development and works to combat factors that compromise their rights, including child labor and beyond.
About VF Corporation
Founded in 1899, VF Corporation is one of the world’s largest apparel, footwear and accessories companies connecting people to the lifestyles, activities and experiences they cherish most through a family of iconic outdoor, active and workwear brands including Vans®, The North Face®, Timberland® and Dickies®. Our purpose is to power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. We connect this purpose with a relentless drive to succeed to create value for all stakeholders and use our company as a force for good. For more information, please visit vfc.com.
Media Contacts:
VF Corporation
Molly Cuffe
Director, Corporate Responsibility Communications
Molly_Cuffe@vfc.com
