We expect our suppliers to treat all workers fairly, with equal access to opportunities and protection from discrimination and harassment. These expectations are set out in our Code of Conduct and followed up through our Factory Standards Programme.
We recognise that working conditions and gender roles differ across countries. This means gender-related risks can look different depending on local context. To better address this, we are integrating gender considerations into our broader human rights due diligence, rather than relying only on standalone projects.
This approach helps us better understand the experiences of women in the supply chain and supports more inclusive ways of identifying and addressing risks.
Addressing gender-based discrimination and harassment
We collaborate with BSR through the RISE initiative to support workplace programmes in several sourcing countries. These programmes focus on strengthening respectful workplaces and supporting better dialogue between workers and management.
Within RISE, the Respect programme addresses gender-based violence and harassment through awareness, training and structured engagement. It aims to strengthen workplace practices and ensure that workers’ voices are better heard.
In addition to RISE, we work with partners such as Phulki, ACEV and other local organisations to support programmes tailored to specific country needs. These initiatives cover topics such as health, financial skills, digital tools, workplace respect and leadership.
Our work also reflects local challenges. For example, we explore barriers women face in accessing social security, support mental health and recovery after crises, and strengthen childcare options in selected factories.
These efforts are ongoing and depend on continued collaboration, local insight and long-term engagement across our supply chain.