InterReligious Task Force on Central America

What is a sweatshop?

It is any workplace in which workers are subject to extreme exploitation. This includes not providing workers with benefits, acceptable working conditions, or a living wage. A living enables workers to cover the cost of basic needs, such as food, shelter, and healthcare; minimum wages usually don't cover these costs.

What is sweatshop labor like?

Sweatshop laborers generally work 60-80hours per week and are not paid enough to put food on the table, sometimes receiving just pennies a day for their labor. Often, the sweatshop environment is unsafe where workers are harassed, intimidated, forced to work overtime, and made to work in dangerous and unhealthy environments, even while ill. Workers handle toxic chemical paints, solvents, and glues with their bare hands.

Why do sweatshops exist?

Sweatshops are a product of the global economy and so-called "free" trade. Companies increase profits by driving down costs any way possible, so they set up low-cost factories. To minimize costs, companies look for places with the lowest wages and human rights protections. Sweatshops can be found all over Central and South America, Asia, and certain regions of Europe. There are even undocumented workers in sweatshops in places like New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

What is the link between sweatshops and child labor?

Children are employed in sweatshops because they work for less money and are less likely to complain about poor working conditions. Many of the children must work to help their parents, who are not paid enough to provide for the family. An education is out of the question for these children, who must work instead of going to school.