From root causes to real change: Using a systems approach to foster decent work deep in supply chains

Improving micro, small and medium enterprises’ (MSMEs) access to supply chains and their benefits is critical for fostering economic development and decent work. A systems approach can help identify key barriers that hinder MSME performance and investment in workers.

This brief provides an overview of how a systems approach can identify the root causes to decent work deficits in lower tiers of complex supply chains and the means to address them. Such an approach can inform long-term action by governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and development practitioners to tackle common “systemic” issues to improve both business outcomes and working conditions.