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Chains of Inequality and Human Commodities: The Sociology of Exploitation and Modern Slavery in Logistics Network and Global Supply Chains

Chains of Inequality and Human Commodities: The Sociology of Exploitation and Modern Slavery in Logistics Network and Global Supply Chains
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Author(s): Subhra Rajat Balabantaray (Indian Institute of Management, Ranchi, India)
Copyright: 2026
Pages: 22
Source title: Transforming Sustainability and Value Creation with Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Saurav Negi (Modern College of Business and Science, Oman)and Reason Masengu (Middle East College, Oman)
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-0649-0.ch003

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Abstract

Supply chains are the lifeline of the modern economy, ensuring the seamless movement of goods. However, beneath the efficiency of these networks lies a hidden architecture of exploitation, coercion, and systemic inequality. This chapter critically examines the intersection of sociology, modern slavery, and logistics/supply chain systems to unravel how structural power imbalances and capitalist imperatives perpetuate the commodification of human labour in contemporary global commerce. The chapter also delves into the logistics sector, analysing the working conditions of warehouse labourers, transporters, and delivery agents. These roles, often characterized by extensive, surveillance, and hyper-productivity, highlight how modern technologies (e.g., algorithmic management, tracking systems) can reinforce control and reduce worker autonomy.

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