Renowned for its globally affordable clothing, online fast-fashion retailer Shein faces a mounting boycott campaign amid allegations of being involved in the forced labor of Uyghur Muslims in China. Chicago-based human rights organisation Justice for All has urged Muslim women to boycott Shein, citing concerns over its sourcing practices.
Arslan Hidayat, Leader, Save Uyghur Campaign, emphasises, Shein's alleged use of forced labor exacerbates the oppression faced by the Uyghur community. He urges Muslims to protest against such practices and demonstrate solidarity with the affected group.
However, Shein denies any involvement in forced labor and asserts a zero-tolerance policy regarding such practices. The company reiterates its commitment to human rights and compliance with US laws, requiring its contract manufacturers to source cotton only from approved regions.
Nevertheless, worries persist regarding Shein's use of Xinjiang cotton, prohibited under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. Despite US bans on Xinjiang imports, Shein's shipments often evade scrutiny through customs loopholes, allowing them to enter the US market unchecked.
In response to bipartisan calls for action against imports linked to forced labor, experts emphasise the need for more comprehensive measures. Yalkun Uluyol, a research consultant, advocates for a more inclusive entity list targeting companies with documented evidence of forced labor practices.
Despite the controversy, Shein continues to attract customers, especially during Ramadan, with its affordable Islamic clothing options. Social media influencers, including Muslim YouTubers, have partnered with Shein to showcase its products, further bolstering its popularity.
