The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) Base Code is a globally recognized set of guidelines that establishes minimum standards for working conditions and labour practices in supply chains. Developed by the ETI, a leading alliance of companies, trade unions, and NGOs, the Base Code is founded on the conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and is widely adopted by businesses committed to ethical trade.
What are the ETI base code core principles?
The ETI base code covers nine core principles which we summarised here.
1. Employment is freely chosen
2. Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining are respected
3. Working conditions are safe and hygienic
Employers must provide a safe and healthy work environment and take steps to prevent accidents and injuries. They should give workers regular health and safety training. Employers must provide clean toilet facilities, potable water, and sanitary food storage areas. When offering accommodation, it should meet workers’ basic needs.
4. Child labour shall not be used
5. Living wages are paid
6. Working hours are not excessive
7. No discrimination is practiced
8. Regular employment is provided
9. No harsh or inhumane treatment is allowed
The ETI base code can help improve the lives of vulnerable workers
The ETI Base Code is implemented by companies across various sectors, including garment and textiles, food and agriculture, electronics, and many others. Its principles are applied in supply chains spanning numerous countries, particularly in regions where labour rights and working conditions are a pressing concern, such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
One of the key impacts of the ETI Base Code is its ability to drive positive change in global supply chains. By setting clear expectations for suppliers and providing a framework for ethical trade, the Base Code encourages companies to take responsibility for the welfare of workers in their supply chains. This, in turn, can lead to improved working conditions, better wages, and enhanced protections for workers’ rights.
The ETI Base Code’s emphasis on freely chosen employment and the prohibition of forced labour helps combat modern slavery and human trafficking. Its provisions on freedom of association and collective bargaining empower workers to advocate for their rights and participate in decision-making processes that affect their working lives.
The Base Code’s focus on safe and hygienic working conditions is crucial in preventing workplace accidents, injuries, and health hazards. By requiring companies to provide regular health and safety training and assign responsibility for these issues to senior management, the Code promotes a culture of safety and well-being in the workplace.
The prohibition of child labour under the ETI Base Code is another critical aspect of its impact. By requiring companies to contribute to policies and programs that enable children to attend and remain in quality education, the Code helps break the cycle of child labour and promotes children’s rights to education and development.
The ETI Base Code’s provisions on living wages and reasonable working hours aim to ensure that workers can maintain a decent standard of living and have adequate time for rest, family, and personal pursuits. The Code’s non-discrimination clause helps promote equal opportunities and fair treatment for all workers, regardless of their personal characteristics.
Furthermore, the Base Code’s emphasis on regular employment and the avoidance of precarious labour arrangements helps foster job security and stability for workers. Its prohibition of harsh or inhumane treatment, including physical abuse, sexual harassment, and verbal abuse, helps create a work environment free from violence and intimidation.
The impact of the ETI Base Code extends beyond individual companies and their supply chains. By setting industry-wide standards and promoting collaboration among businesses, trade unions, and NGOs, the ETI Base Code contributes to the development of more ethical and sustainable trade practices on a global scale.
However, implementing the ETI Base Code is not without challenges. Ensuring compliance across complex global supply chains requires ongoing commitment, resources, and collaboration from all stakeholders involved. Regular monitoring, auditing, and remediation efforts are necessary to identify and address non-compliances and drive continuous improvement.
Despite these challenges, the ETI Base Code remains a powerful tool for businesses striving to uphold ethical trade practices and promote fair labour standards worldwide. As more companies adopt the Base Code and integrate its principles into their operations, the potential for positive change in global supply chains continues to grow.