ISO 26000

ISO 26000 - Guidance on social responsibility was issued in November 2010 by the International Standard Organization (ISO) after five years of work by international multi-stakeholders, which involved the main interest groups in more than 90 countries. It is based on health and safety, and human rights international standards:

• International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions
• Universal Declaration on Human Rights
• UN Convention on Children’s Rights

This guidance defines what is understood by the term “social responsibility” and how organisations of all kinds might respond to relevant issues and opportunities.

ISO 26000 is intended to help organisations contribute to sustainable development. It is designed to inspire them to excel in legal compliance and recognise that it is a principal obligation of any organisation, as well as a vital part of social responsibility. The guidance aims to promote a common understanding in the field of social responsibility, as well as complement other international social responsibility instruments and initiatives. It guides organisations on how they should ethically and transparently consider societal, environmental, legal, cultural, political and organisational diversity, thereby contributing to social and ecological wellbeing and improving sustainable development.

ISO 26000 is used Globally with this purpose and on 21st October 2020, ISO 26000 was adopted as a European standard and provides guidelines on:

• Concepts, terms and definitions related to social responsibility.
• The background, trends and characteristics of social responsibility.
• Principles and practices relating to social responsibility.
• The core subjects and issues of social responsibility.
• Integrating, implementing and promoting socially responsible behaviour throughout the organisation and, through its policies and practices, within its sphere of influence.
• Identifying and engaging with stakeholders.
• Communicating commitments, performance and other information related to social responsibility.

TÜV SÜD supports companies as a third-party, using independent personnel with the most suitable skills. The assessment methodology used was developed within the TÜV SÜD Group.

Objectives and Benefits

• Minimise compliance risks - by complying with national and international statutory requirements for a socially responsible business.
• Increase consumer loyalty – by demonstrating your organisation’s commitment to a socially sustainable business model.
• Avoid negative publicity – by providing clear methods that work towards safeguarding your organisation’s reputation.
• Have a highly motivated workforce - which benefits from improved working conditions, and creates superior quality products and services.
• Prove your organisation’s socially conscious credentials – by Integrating key elements of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria and sustainability frameworks into corporate governance.