Search

How can we help?

Icon

Further Reports from 2017 UN Forum on Business and Human Rights

Michael Sippitt, Chairman of Clarkslegal LLP and the Commonwealth Environmental Investment Platform, reports further from the 2017 UN Forum on Business and Human Rights in Geneva.

One key concern about the future of work in developing countries is the probable displacement of low skilled work by technology.

It cannot be said with certainty how bad the loss of jobs may be, but the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has published information which should greatly concern the Commonwealth in considering economic growth prospects of developing countries. Studies have indicated that major loss of low skilled work should be expected.

“Sewbots” will progressively change the sector, and will likely be operated in destination markets, thus removing significant manufacturing from countries which offer low labour costs but for retailers carry some hard to manage supply chain risks.

Taking textiles, clothing and footwear as one key example, accounting for some 9 million jobs in ASEAN alone, this may be the most vulnerable to technology displacement. More environmentally friendly manufacturing with new technology may also reduce need for low skilled work.

“Sewbots” will progressively change the sector, and will likely be operated in destination markets, thus removing significant manufacturing from countries which offer low labour costs but for retailers carry some hard to manage supply chain risks.

The high dependence of some highly populated Commonwealth nations on export of garments means that automation threatens livelihoods of millions and economic growth prospects generally.

This makes the issue a critical area for Commonwealth study towards governmental/business co-operation to monitor the potential impact and to manage the serious consequences for people who have little resource and resilience to face the impact of robotics.

It is an important issue for Commonwealth leaders to address with some urgency as the pace of technological change may accelerate in this as in other job threatening areas.

Disclaimer
This information is for guidance purposes only and should not be regarded as a substitute for taking legal advice. Please refer to the full General Notices on our website.

Author profile

Michael Sippitt

Senior Consultant

View profile

+44 118 958 5321

About this article

Read, listen and watch our latest insights

Pub
  • 19 August 2025
  • Immigration

Navigating New UK Immigration Rules: The 2025 Changes

In our latest podcast, join Ruth Karimatsenga and Monica Mastropasqua from the immigration team as they guide you through the new 2025 UK Immigration Rules.

art
  • 18 August 2025
  • Privacy and Data Protection

Top 10 DUAA Compliance Tips for Employers

To support your preparation, we have outlined 10 practical tips to help employers navigate the new requirements and take full advantage of the DUAA’s reforms.

art
  • 15 August 2025
  • Employment

Employment Rights Bill – Get your tailored action plan now!

The Employment Rights Bill is a major piece of legislation which significantly overhauls worker’s rights.

art
  • 13 August 2025
  • Commercial Real Estate

Proposed Ban of upwards only rent reviews

In an effort to save the high street, the government has proposed to ban upwards only rent reviews in commercial leases, without any consultation with professional bodies. It has caught the commercial property sector completely by surprise.

art
  • 12 August 2025
  • Privacy and Data Protection

From WeTransfer to WhatsApp: How Unapproved Tools and “Shadow IT” Could Threaten UK GDPR Compliance

Businesses and self-employed professionals are in a constant pursuit of efficiency and productivity.  There are, as a result, no end of tools and products available to smooth digital workflows. 

art
  • 07 August 2025
  • Immigration

New simplified British Citizenship route for Irish Citizens now in force

From 22 July 2025, eligible Irish citizens who have been resident in the UK for five years can now register as British citizens under a new, simplified route.