Sign the Sustainability Charter for Businesses and Others

Sustainability is a buzzword that is gaining momentum, but a growing number of organizations are coming forward with practical initiatives to help turn the concept into reality. One such initiative is called the Worldwide Charter for Fair International Commerce (WCFIC). Developed by the IBSO, this global initiative supports international businesses showcasing a particular social and environmental sensibility through following a code of conduct and a set of universal principles; reflecting the core values of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, labor conventions of the International Labor Organization (ILO) and other internationally recognized principles.

The Worldwide Charter for Fair International Commerce is an absolutely non-commercial project and 100% free for its signatories.

Businesses, institutions and media outlets are welcoming to join this international initiative. By becoming a signatory, your organization commits to adopt and implement the Charter’s Principles to demonstrate its commitment to be among the world leaders in fair business dealings and corporate responsibility.

We, leaders from business, international agencies and institutions, non-government and civil society organizations, academia and the media, by signing the Worldwide Charter for Fair International Commerce on behalf of our organizations, confirm that we agree and commit to the following principles:

1. As a minimum standard, comply with all applicable local, state, provincial and federal laws and regulations in all the countries where we operate.

2. Not sell or deal in counterfeit and pirated goods. Refrain from infringing on intellectual property or other proprietary rights owned by a third party.

3. Act with the highest ethical standards and integrity, implementing good faith and fair dealing norms and compete in a transparent and open manner with a zero tolerance on corruption.

4. Respect the relationships with contractors, partners, clients and customers. Any kind of fraud, falsifying or misrepresenting practice is unacceptable.

5. Present the organization’s financial data and non-financial information honestly, accurately and objectively.

6. Respect the cultures and customs of the countries in which the organization works by demonstrating a spirit of tolerance, integrity and social responsibility.

7. Wherever the operations are located, provide all internationally recognized human rights, a safe work environment, fair treatment and salary for all employees including the principle of “equal pay for equal work” without discrimination of any kind.

8. Take all possible measures to avoid or minimize damage to the environment and human health.

9. Take all actions necessary to comply with the requirements of this Charter. Senior management of signatories will assume the responsibility for realizing the letter and spirit of these principles.

For more information or to sign the charter click here.