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>> This wasn't evil Westerners coming in and mercilessly exploiting the natives; this was simply the bog-standard working conditions in every construction site
by ttt_ 15y ago
>> This wasn't evil Westerners coming in and mercilessly exploiting the natives; this was simply the bog-standard working conditions in every construction site across the country.
I think while your perception of the native working conditions and the improvement that westerners brought to that is probably true, it also misses the point completely.
The criticism is not about the working conditions per se, but rather that the western companies knowingly hand-pick nations with the worst-off working conditions because it cheapens their productive chain. It's not about the company exploiting the local workers more so than usual, but that they choose to manufacture in countries that regularly allow local workers to be exploited and so they can too without "worrying".
What makes it worst is that the western companies do not share the cultural traits and history that makes the country what it is, but rather they come from a place where stricter rules are valued, and are valued for a reason (quality of life, safety, health, rights), that they then choose to ignore in favor of their own bottom line.
That is what the real issue is. It IS inhumane from their part and they SHOULD be questioned on their decisions and practices.
I know that there are plenty others factors that drive companies there, but it's still a decision and they should be accountable, if not legally than morally.
[Edit: is there something wrong with the comment that its being downvoted?]
- peteretep 15y ago> The criticism is not about the working conditions per se, but rather that the western companies knowingly hand-pick nations with the worst-off working conditions because it cheapens their productive chain You could also flip this 'fact' around, and present it as: Western companies knowingly hand-pick nations with the biggest need for the investment they're providing. But in both cases, you'd be missing the point that the money is just going where it gets the biggest return, and that that trumps most other concerns.
- ttt_ 15y ago>> you'd be missing the point that the money is just going where it gets the biggest return I'm not arguing with that, just pointing out that the reason why people feel at odds with that practice is not because they don't understand why it's like it is, but that they don't agree with it morally.
- edanm 15y agoThe thing is, if we don't let companies do this "morally bad" act, then these companies and the people living in them are worse off. So while you might have a theoretical case to make about the morality, in practice, these companies are Making The World Better. This isn't their intent, but it is the practical outcome of what they do. P.S. You shouldn't be downvoted, your comment was good.