GRI 205-1, GRI 308-1, GRI 308-2, GRI 414-1
Human rights and due diligence
50Hertz acknowledges its responsibility with regard to respect for human rights and naturally respects the right to privacy, personal safety, freedom of expression and property rights of employees as well as local residents and customers. 50Hertz also assumes responsibility for compliance with social standards in the supply chain. For this reason, 50Hertz is not only a member of the United Nations Global Compact, but is also committed to the core labour standards of the International Labour Organization (ILO). This commitment is underlined not least by ourDeclaration of Principles on Human Rights Due Diligence in accordance with the legally required human rights and environmental due diligence in supply chains (LkSG).
In order to ensure that our business partners also comply with internationally binding rules related to human rights - such as the prohibition of forced and child labour - sustainability and ethics are essential components of our evaluation of suppliers and service providers. Elia Group suppliers commit to a common and binding Supplier Code of Conduct (SCOC), which is a key part of all Elia Group supplier contracts. Suppliers must accept the SCOC when submitting a bid and are obliged to comply with it. Human rights are also included in the clauses of the General Purchasing Conditions. Further developments in this area are currently being discussed at Group level. For example, in future, suppliers will be asked about their approach to sustainability, including human rights due diligence, via an external service provider; their responses will be recorded on a balanced score card. The project is currently in its start-up phase and initial proposals are expected during the course of 2022. In addition, 50Hertz raises awareness about sustainable actions to take in regular discussions with stakeholders across the supply chain, furthering their understanding of compliance with ethical principles and guidelines related to sustainable development.
All procurement at 50Hertz is undertaken in accordance with specific guidelines. These state that all procurement activities above €100,000 are carried out centrally via the Purchasing Department. A multi-level strategy prevents any misuse and increases control. The ‘four eyes principle’ is guaranteed at all times. The procurement guidelines, purchasing manual and the General Purchasing Conditions form a framework which aims to prevent corruption across all of our locations.