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To what extent is it ethical for Nike to abuse and exploit its workers in less developed countries like Indonesia in order to have lower production costs?

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The ethical implications of Nike’s labor practices in less developed countries like Indonesia are complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, Nike has a responsibility to its shareholders to maximize profits, and this often means outsourcing production to countries where labor costs are lower. On the other hand, Nike also has a moral obligation to treat its workers fairly and to ensure that they are not subjected to abuse or exploitation.

There is evidence to suggest that Nike has, in the past, engaged in unethical labor practices in Indonesia. For example, a 1991 report by Jeff Ballinger documented a number of abuses at Nike factories in Indonesia, including low wages, excessive overtime, and physical and verbal abuse. In response to these allegations, Nike launched a number of initiatives to improve its labor practices, including a code of conduct for its suppliers and a monitoring program to ensure that the code was being followed.

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However, there have also been allegations of abuse in recent years. In 2011, for example, the Associated Press reported that workers at a Nike factory in Indonesia were being physically assaulted and verbally abused. Nike has denied these allegations, but the company has also acknowledged that there is still more work to be done to improve its labor practices.

The question of whether it is ethical for Nike to abuse and exploit its workers in less developed countries like Indonesia is a matter of opinion. Some people believe that Nike has a moral obligation to treat its workers fairly, regardless of where they are located. Others believe that Nike is simply acting in its own best interests by outsourcing production to countries where labor costs are lower. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether they believe that Nike’s labor practices are ethical.

Here are some factors to consider when making this decision:

  • The extent to which Nike is aware of and tolerates abuse at its factories.
  • The steps that Nike is taking to address abuse and improve its labor practices.
  • The economic benefits that Nike’s outsourcing practices bring to Indonesia.
  • The impact of Nike’s outsourcing practices on Indonesian workers.

It is important to note that there is no easy answer to this question. There are valid arguments to be made on both sides of the issue. Ultimately, each individual must decide for themselves whether they believe that Nike’s labor practices are ethical.

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