Human Rights

Human rights are embedded in all our business

Since the foundation of our company in 1896, Roche as a multinational enterprise has in many ways fostered human rights in our own operations, in our value chain and our activities related to our business. This valuable contribution to society is acknowledged by many stakeholders. We monitor and evaluate our activities, provide evidence and actively engage with our stakeholders.

The “Ruggie Framework” consisting of the three pillars “Protect, Respect and Remedy” was approved by the UN Human Rights Council in 2011 when it adopted the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). It has received widespread support from governments, business and society. As a result, countries have issued a national action plan in order to nationally implement the UNGPs.

Roche acknowledges, supports and respects the UNGPs. We are equally committed to complying with the 10 UN Global Compact Principles; the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work stipulated by the International Labour Organization.

We strive to embed human rights in existing operations by multiple means: assess the risks, increase awareness, foster due diligence, strengthen the legal framework, collaborate in collective actions, open dialoguing and transparent reporting. Where faced with human rights violations, we implement adequate remediation.

We are all expected to:
  • Enable and foster human rights in the sphere of our influence.
  • Speak up in case of a suspected human rights violation.
  • Perform risked-based due diligence when working with business partners.
Questions & Answers

I heard informally that one of our suppliers is under investigation for using child labour. Should I ignore this rumour?

No. Roche protects human rights and does not tolerate behaviour which is not in line with applicable laws and generally accepted sustainability standards. You should immediately speak up and bring this information to the attention of your Line Manager. Roche will investigate the matter and take further appropriate steps.

I am interested in human rights topics. Where can I find information about Roche’s position, e.g. on forced and child labour?

In the Roche Position Paper on Respecting Human Rights and in the Roche Group Employment Policy.

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