The phrase “push, pull, dance” may seem like a strange combination, but for those working in public health procurement, it holds a powerful meaning. This phrase represents a new and innovative approach to tackling human and labor rights violations in supply chains, particularly in the context of public health procurement. In their recent article, “Push, Pull, Dance: Reimagining Ethical Supply Chains in Public Health Procurement,” the authors offer a new theoretical framework that aims to not only save lives but also prevent harm through ethical procurement practices.
The field of public health procurement is crucial in ensuring that essential medicines, vaccines, and other medical supplies reach those who need them most. However, the supply chains involved in this process are complex and often involve multiple actors, making it challenging to ensure ethical practices. In recent years, there have been growing concerns about human and labor rights violations, including modern slavery, in these supply chains. This has prompted the need for a new approach to address these issues effectively.
The authors of “Push, Pull, Dance” argue that the traditional approach to tackling human and labor rights violations in supply chains, such as audits and certifications, has not been effective. These methods often focus on compliance and fail to address the root causes of these violations. Moreover, they are often expensive and time-consuming, making them inaccessible to smaller organizations. As a result, the authors propose a new theoretical framework that shifts the focus from compliance to collaboration and empowerment.
The first element of this framework is “push,” which refers to the need for regulations and policies that push organizations to take action against human and labor rights violations in their supply chains. This includes laws and regulations that hold companies accountable for their actions and require them to conduct due diligence to identify and address any violations. The authors also emphasize the importance of transparency and disclosure, as it allows stakeholders to hold organizations accountable for their actions.
The second element of the framework is “pull,” which involves creating incentives for organizations to prioritize ethical practices in their supply chains. This could include financial incentives, such as tax breaks or preferential treatment in procurement processes, for companies that demonstrate ethical practices. The authors also suggest the use of consumer pressure, where consumers can use their purchasing power to support companies that prioritize ethical supply chains.
The final element of the framework is “dance,” which represents the need for collaboration and empowerment. The authors argue that addressing human and labor rights violations in supply chains requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and consumers. Collaboration and dialogue between these stakeholders are crucial in identifying and addressing the root causes of these violations. The authors also emphasize the importance of empowering workers in supply chains by providing them with access to information and resources to advocate for their rights.
The “Push, Pull, Dance” framework offers a new perspective on ethical supply chains in public health procurement. By shifting the focus from compliance to collaboration and empowerment, this approach has the potential to not only save lives but also prevent harm. However, the success of this framework relies on the commitment and action of all stakeholders involved.
Governments play a crucial role in creating an enabling environment for ethical supply chains. They must develop and enforce regulations that hold companies accountable for their actions and provide incentives for ethical practices. Governments can also use their purchasing power to support companies that prioritize ethical supply chains. This would not only improve the lives of workers in supply chains but also promote fair competition and create a level playing field for all businesses.
Businesses also have a responsibility to prioritize ethical practices in their supply chains. They must conduct due diligence to identify and address any human and labor rights violations, and be transparent in their actions. Companies that demonstrate ethical practices should be recognized and rewarded, while those that fail to comply with regulations and policies should face consequences.
Civil society organizations and consumers also have a crucial role to play in promoting ethical supply chains. Civil society organizations can monitor and report on human and labor rights violations in supply chains, and advocate for policy change. Consumers, on the other hand, can use their purchasing power to support ethical companies and hold businesses accountable for their actions.
In conclusion, the “Push, Pull, Dance” approach offers a new and innovative way to tackle human and labor rights violations in public health procurement. By focusing on collaboration and empowerment, this framework has the potential to not only save lives but also prevent harm. However, for this approach to be successful, the commitment and action of all stakeholders involved are crucial. Let us push
