Modern slavery in a developed country: the empirical case of Prato, Italy

This working paper explores the Prato garment district in Italy by engaging with multiple stakeholders to understand how exploitative practices can be disrupted in a cross-cultural setting. The paper focuses on investigating the dynamics at play amongst local actors and uses paradox theory to identify paradoxes and tensions impeding action against modern slavery. We explore how the intervention of multiple stakeholders is needed to reduce modern slavery issues to help foster the integration of international migrants and Italian entrepreneurs, ensuring that the industry can continue to prosper.