The interrelationship between digital access and modern slavery

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between country-level digital access and vulnerability to modern slavery, focussing on countries committed to achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8.7. The study draws on information poverty theory to frame analysis of the role of digital connectivity as a moral good in reducing modern slavery exploitation risks. Using panel data from 31 OECD countries over a 10-year period, the research tests two hypotheses on the relationship between digital access, governance, transparency and modern slavery vulnerability. The findings reveal that greater digital access is associated with lower vulnerability to modern slavery and that this effect is significantly shaped by the quality of national governance and transparency. Based on information poverty theory, the study expands the understanding of modern slavery vulnerability by demonstrating how digital access influences exploitation risks within the governance framework, risks that the state has a moral duty to reduce. The findings provide insights for policymakers and business leaders, emphasising the importance of digital inclusion and transparent governance in reducing modern slavery and strengthening human rights protections.