Business Leaders from across the Indo-Pacific region came together in Perth over two days as part of the Bali Process Government and Business Forum.
Statements from the Floor
During the Official Forum, statements from the floor were made by over 35 government and business representatives. Written statements have been uploaded to the Official Government website, including statements from businesses in Afghanistan, Jordan, Palau, Thailand, Iraq, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, New Zealand, Pakistan and United States. There is still time to upload additional statements, if you would like your statement to be uploaded, please email Shaeron Yapp at syapp@walkfreefoundation.org.
Photos and Key Quotes from Business Leaders
During the business only session hosted by EY, leaders spoke of their own experiences, corporate commitment and personal drive to end modern slavery.
“You cannot outsource moral responsibility” – Bill Anderson, Head of Environmental and Social Affairs, Adidas
“There is, at this precise moment, a once-in-a-generation chance to influence the sustainable development priorities of our world and our future.” – Dr Darian McBain, Global Director for Sustainable Development, Thai Union Group
“If anyone feels like they are isolated, we will fail. We have to stand shoulder to shoulder. If one company fails because we don’t stay together, we will all fail.” – Andrew Forrest AO, Chairman Fortescue Metals Group and Minderoo Foundation, Australia
“What we are doing is not enough.” Winston Cheng, President of JD.com, China
“Yet these ethical issues are becoming increasingly important to our customers, our voters and our children. We need to show leadership and to have the courage to make meaningful change to help ensure that every citizen of our planet is treated with dignity and respect and is free from exploitation.” Rob Fyfe, Chief Executive Officer of Icebreaker, New Zealand
“If we want to change the world we live in, we must change our principles” – Harold Qualao, Founder and Owner of Qualao Consulting, Vanuatu
“She is my mother, he is my brother. They must know they are not alone. We must fight for policy, action and legislation.” Chevaan Daniel, Group Director of Maharaja Group, Sri Lanka
“It’s time to choose to do something. We are determined champions of the Bali Process and efforts to eradicate modern slavery.” Dr Ehsanollah Bayat, Chief Executive Officer of the Bayat Group, Afghanistan
Not only is it a moral responsibility for me as a CEO of Surangel & Sons to make sure our supply chains are free of human trafficking, it’s also a financial risk to our brand and reputation as a company if we were to look the other way or simply don’t pay attention. Surangel Whipps Jr, President and CEO – Surangel, Palau
