Dr. Frauke Steglich

What sparked your interest in researching sustainability in global value chains?

As a trade economist by training, I've long been fascinated by the complex relationship between globalization and development. My interest in global value chains stems from a desire to understand how international trade and investment shape outcomes for producers - especially those in developing countries. Over time, I became particularly interested in how sustainability concerns intersect with economic development, and how economic globalization can be aligned with environmental and social goals, and how trade can serve not only as a driver of growth, but also as a lever for promoting responsible business practices and sustainable development.

What is the focus of your current research, and what impact do you hope it will have?

My current research focuses on analyzing the effects of human rights and environmental due diligence regulations on trade relationships with developing countries. I am particularly interested in how such regulations influence trade flows and market access for suppliers in the Global South, and in developing methods to measure human rights and environmental risks within global value chains. The broader goal of my research is to provide solid empirical evidence that can inform policymakers. By shedding light on both the intended outcomes and the unintended consequences of sustainability regulations, I hope to contribute to a more nuanced and effective policy discourse.

What do you see as the biggest knowledge gaps in sustainable global value chains?

One important knowledge gap lies in understanding the real-world impact of sustainability regulations on producers in developing countries. While the theoretical goals of such regulations are commendable, we still know too little about how these measures are experienced on the ground - whether they truly lead to better outcomes, or whether they lead to unintended negative impacts. There's also a need for better data and methodologies to capture appropriate sustainability outcomes accurately across complex and fragmented supply networks.

How do you hope to collaborate with others in this research network?

I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration within this research network. Coming from an economics background, I value the insights that other disciplines can bring to understanding and governing global supply chains. I believe that combining our diverse perspectives will help address "big picture" questions more effectively.