Increasingly, businesses are being asked to consider supporting association or accreditation programs. Given the development of various initiatives, this may not be an easy decision. It is certainly important to know the facts and keep apprised of relevant developments.
Initiatives now exist in the United States, European Union, Canada, Australia and other nations. Fair trade initiatives also cover worker rights concerns, as do some labeling programs.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has been involved in some innovative programs to monitor labor conditions in developing countries and can be a valuable partner in addressing international labor challenges. The ILO is an important forum where codes of conduct and international labor standards are determined. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has recently updated its code of conduct for multinational enterprises, and the Secretary General of the United Nations has enlisted companies and NGOs in supporting an ethical business initiative.
ST&R helps businesses understand and respond to association and accreditation initiatives.