Jola’s Code of Conduct
A code of conduct is a collection of behaviors that can or should be used in a wide variety of environments and contexts depending on the situation. Many companies base their formulation on one or more of the numerous internationally recognized reference documents that exist.
The code of conduct that is currently most widespread in industry is the United Nations’ “Global Compact” (UNGC) for shaping the globalized economy. It is a strategic initiative to align business activities and strategies with ten universally recognized principles in the areas of human rights, labor standards, environmental protection and the fight against corruption.
The UNGC focuses on the problems of the global South. In the case of companies based in Germany, it is reasonable to assume that the principles are met because the issues addressed are regulated by law at national level.
Nevertheless, we at Jola are repeatedly asked about the UNGC or its content, which is why we have based our code of conduct on it. Jola consistently implements its ten principles.
Companies should…
Human Rights
Principle 1:
… support and respect the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights.
Principle 2:
… make sure that they are not complicit in human rights abuses.
Labour
Principle 3:
… uphold the freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining.
Principle 4:
… uphold the elimination of all forms of forced and compulsory labour.
Principle 5:
… uphold the effective abolition of child labour.
Principle 6:
… uphold the elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation.
Environment
Principle 7:
… support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges.
Principle 8:
… undertake initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility.
Principle 9:
… encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies.
Anti-Corruption
Principle 10:
… work against corruption in all its forms, including extortion and bribery.