“I’m too poor! I can’t afford that LV bag.”

I often overhear conversation such as the above. Initially, it sounds normal and I easily let it pass. On second thoughts, it is interesting to note how we Singaporeans define “poor”. We are poor, not because we lack basic needs like food and water, but because we are missing out on branded products and overseas vacations. That we have this perception of poverty is a reflection of our well-to-do society.

Here’s a thought. For 50 per cent of the world population, everyday is a struggle as they do not even have basic meals, clean water and healthcare. Should we still call ourselves poor?

It gets worse
Every time we spend on major brands like Nike, we are making poverty worse. Their workers may hold perfectly paid jobs, but they may not be adequately protected by labour laws in their countries. What are some of the problems that result? Child labour and labour exploitation (read the story of an exploited worker here).

It is very common to find that our clothes, shoes and bags were manufactured in China. I remember owning a pair of Nike shoes that were made in Indonesia, while some may have been made in Thailand, Vietnam, Pakistan or Philippines. These production countries all share a same feature: poverty. Raw materials are also needed to manufacture goods. Blame it on the resource curse: it is a well-known irony that resource rich countries usually end up being the poorest. Just look at the African nations for instance.


In short, the poor are left poorer.

What can we do about this? Be responsible consumers. Think about where your products came from. Were they produced in an ethical manner? Were any rights abused? Only when we become more inquisitional can we make this world a better place and reduce poverty in the world. RG

Raquel believes world peace will never be achieved in her lifetime, and is doing everything possible to embark humankind to achieve a more humane and just society.

THIS ARTICLE IS PART OF Nov 23-29 :: The Karma Issue