Sweatin'

I read an extremely interesting topic today concerning the positive effects of sweatshops in developing countries. While most of us are against sweatshops, and feel as if they are exploiting the world's poor, this may not be the case. The alternatives to sweatshop work must be considered before the concept is dismissed entirely. For instance, what other job markets are open in places such as Sub-Saharan Africa?
When presented with the choices of working in a mine or as a prostitute, the sweatshop is the highly preferred, less dangerous choice.

However, the concept of sweatshops as a valid way for third world countries to increase employment levels, build GDP and infrastructure, and enter the global market is not what I was intrigued by. (If you are, read more here)  The concept of sweatshops as a positive approach to conducting global business and the marketing implications of this approach could become outlandish.

Imagine if Nike introduced a campaign about how they are proud to help developing countries through sweatshop job opportunities. Would the public understand, or would there be another round of boycotts?  While no definitive answers will be found until a company has the guts to pull such an extreme move, it is an interesting concept to consider.