London, November 21, 2025
Princess Eugenie has launched the Hidden Threads: Fake Fashion – A Human Rights Scandal campaign in London to expose the exploitation of child labor and forced labor behind counterfeit fashion industries worldwide, calling for urgent government intervention and transparency.
Hidden Exploitation in Counterfeit Fashion
The campaign draws attention to the often-overlooked abuses embedded in the counterfeit fashion supply chain. It highlights how an estimated 218 million children, aged between 5 and 17, are engaged in full-time work, with 70% classified as victims of child labor. This labor often includes forced work conditions, particularly prevalent in the production of fake fashion goods that flood global markets.
Scale and Urgency of the Problem
Child exploitation remains a pervasive issue affecting millions globally. By focusing on counterfeit fashion, the campaign underscores how this illicit industry not only undermines legitimate businesses but also perpetuates severe human rights violations. The statistics presented reveal a pressing humanitarian concern that demands broad awareness and effective policy action.
A Shift in Royal Advocacy
Princess Eugenie’s role in this campaign represents a notable shift from the traditionally ceremonial duties associated with British royalty. Rather than maintaining neutrality, she actively confronts entrenched social injustices affecting vulnerable children. This approach signals a more direct and progressive form of royal engagement with contemporary global issues.
Partnership with Arts Work
As patron of Arts Work, a charity dedicated to empowering young people through creative arts, Princess Eugenie builds on her commitment to elevate the voices of children and young individuals. Her advocacy is consistent with the charity’s mission to foster social change and support vulnerable youth, linking artistic empowerment with human rights activism.
Calls for Government Transparency and Enforcement
The campaign demands increased transparency from governments regarding their efforts to combat forced labor and counterfeit markets. It urges stricter enforcement of laws to dismantle supply chains exploiting children, advocating for policy reforms and stronger international cooperation. These measures seek to prevent the perpetuation of exploitative labor practices concealed within counterfeit production networks.
Princess Eugenie’s public stance challenges traditional expectations of royal behavior in Britain by combining social activism with royal influence. As awareness of child labor in illicit industries grows, this campaign could catalyze policy changes and greater corporate accountability within the fashion sector and beyond.