The campaign group Stop Uyghur Genocide has launched a legal battle to block the listing of fast-fashion giant Shein on the London Stock Exchange (LSE).
Working with human rights law firm Leigh Day, which announced the news in a press release, the group is urging the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to reject Shein’s possible listing on ethical grounds.
The core issue is the reports of forced labor linked to Shein’s supply chain, specifically the exploitation of Uyghur workers in China. The allegations point to severe human rights abuses, including modern slavery, which directly contradict international labor standards that the UK is committed to upholding through the International Labour Organisation conventions.
These are not new concerns — earlier, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission had already blocked Shein from listing on American exchanges due to similar reasons.
In the UK, Shein’s planned listing has already met a considerable backlash, including from within the fashion industry.
Rahima Mahmut, Executive Director of Stop Uyghur Genocide, voiced her fears that Shein’s presence on the LSE could legitimise unethical practices. “Our investment community must not support companies like Shein, which we believe may enable the ongoing genocidal policies against Uyghurs,” she warned.
The FCA’s role in ensuring that all firms conduct business with integrity is now under the spotlight. The campaign’s lawyers have asked the FCA to ensure Shein provides detailed information on its labor practices and compliance with the UK’s Modern Slavery Act of 2015. More importantly, they demand that Shein’s listing be denied unless there’s proof that the company is free from any forced labor links.
Leigh Day solicitor Ricardo Gama pointed out that financial institutions in the UK must uphold the ethical standards they claim to embody. “At the very minimum, regulators must ensure that laws in place to root out modern slavery are complied with,” he said.
Everything I wore on Day 67 of the 90 days of Shein challenge:
SHEIN LUNE Eyelet Embroidery Knot Front Tee, white
Dazy-Less Drawstring Waist Cargo Wide Leg Denim Pants Baggy Jeans
Burgundy hoodie (thrifted)
2024 New Style College Wind Black & White Outdoor Sports Shoes for Women
Allover Leaf Graphic Drawstring Backpack
DAZY Women’s Floral Print Sleeveless Round Neck Sleep Dress
3pack Lace Trim No Show Brief, black
Fashion Slowdown 
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