Ford’s Pledge to Celebrate International Human Rights

In commemorating International Human Rights Day on December 10th, Ford reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding and safeguarding fundamental human rights across its operations and global supply chain. As the world marks the 75th anniversary of the United Nations’ commitment to human rights, businesses worldwide are called upon to drive continual improvement and transparency within their supply chains to better serve communities and individuals worldwide.

At Ford, the dedication to human rights doesn’t merely surface on specific occasions but remains an ongoing commitment embedded within the fabric of the company. From its internal practices to supplier relationships and throughout the value chain, Ford champions various initiatives addressing the most pressing human rights issues.

Ford’s focus spans across a spectrum of critical human rights concerns, including access to water and sanitation, air quality, child labor, climate change, fair wages, forced labor and ethical recruitment, harassment and discrimination, human trafficking, occupational health, safety, and well-being, as well as product safety and quality.

Ford recognizes that responsibility begins with transparency. In May, the company released a Value Chain Transparency Guide for its global suppliers. This comprehensive guide sets specific reporting standards, aiming to establish one of the most transparent supplier guidelines in the business landscape. Full transparency across the global supply chain is pivotal in detecting, mitigating, and addressing potential human rights issues.

The company’s human rights policies serve as a robust framework to safeguard individuals and the environment. They encompass a range of practices, including prohibiting human trafficking, adherence to ethical recruitment practices, ensuring employee rights to association and bargaining, compliance with labor laws, ethical use of security forces, protection against unlawful eviction, commitment to diversity, women’s rights, a safe working environment, data privacy, anti-discrimination, and anti-bribery policies.

In alignment with environmental responsibility, Ford’s human rights policies extend to environmental protection. The company endeavors to minimize its carbon footprint in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, reduce emissions and energy usage, employ recycled materials, enhance recyclability, and continually improve environmental performance across manufacturing operations.

Ford remains accountable through collaborations with leading NGOs and consortiums to ensure the responsible sourcing of raw materials. Engagements with organizations like the Public-Private Alliance for Responsible Minerals Trade, the Responsible Minerals Initiative, the Copper Mark, and others underscore the company’s dedication to responsible material sourcing.

Sue Slaughter, Director of Supply Chain Sustainability at Ford, highlighted the evolving nature of Ford’s Supplier Code of Conduct. It’s a living document that continuously evolves to address the challenges inherent in a complex supply chain like Ford’s. The company remains steadfast in providing support and tools to every member of its supplier community, fostering compliance with ambitious carbon neutrality goals while upholding lawful and responsible operations with the utmost respect for human rights.

Ford’s commitment to human rights transcends mere compliance; it’s a proactive stance reflecting a deep-seated belief in fairness, equality, and environmental stewardship. As International Human Rights Day dawns each year, Ford’s dedication remains steadfast, a testament to its ethos of responsibility and respect for all individuals and the environment. The company stands as a beacon, demonstrating how corporate commitment to human rights can catalyze positive change, fostering a better, more equitable world.

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