Seven Core Subjects Covered by ISO 26000

As the demand for sustainability and social responsibility grows, businesses face heightened scrutiny from consumers and stakeholders regarding their impact on society and the environment. In response, ISO 26000 emerges as a guiding framework, offering organizations a roadmap to integrate ethical and sustainable practices into their operations.

What Is ISO 26000?

ISO 26000 Social Responsibility is an international standard, which was developed to provide comprehensive guidance on how to behave in a socially responsible way. It provides guidance on social responsibility, offering recommendations and best practices for organizations to integrate social, environmental, and ethical considerations into their operations and strategies. 

It covers a wide range of topics related to social responsibility, including organizational governance, human rights, labor practices, the environment, fair operating practices, consumer issues, and community involvement and development. It is applicable to all organizations whose aim is to contribute to the health and well-being of the society, regardless of their size or industry.

Seven Core Subjects of ISO 26000

ISO 26000 covers seven core subjects that act as a roadmap for businesses to navigate the complexities of social responsibility:

1. Organizational Governance

Organizational governance is the system by which an organization plans and implements decisions to achieve its objectives. It refers to the structures and processes in place to guide an organization's decision-making.  

Strong social responsibility starts with ethical leadership. An ISO 26000-aligned organization fosters transparency by openly communicating its values and social responsibility goals and accountability by ensuring that the organization takes ownership of its actions and impacts.

For instance, organizations like Patagonia have demonstrated exemplary practices by implementing transparent decision-making processes and establishing clear lines of accountability. Patagonia's commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical sourcing is reflected in their governance structure, where they prioritize stakeholder engagement and incorporate environmental and social considerations into their business decisions.

2. Human Rights

Respecting human rights is a cornerstone of social responsibility. There are two human rights main categories:

• The first category concerns civil and political rights and includes such rights as the right to life and liberty, equality before the law, and freedom of expression. 
• The second category concerns economic, social, and cultural rights and includes such rights as the right to work, the right to food, the right to the highest attainable standard of health, the right to education, and the right to social security. 

ISO 26000 emphasizes the importance of conducting due diligence to identify potential human rights risks within the organization's operations and supply chain. This includes avoiding complicity in human rights violations and having clear mechanisms for addressing grievances. 

The standard also highlights the importance of non-discrimination and upholding fundamental principles of rights at work.

For example, Microsoft has implemented comprehensive human rights policies and due diligence processes to ensure respect for human rights throughout their supply chain. 

3. Labor Practices

Labor practices encompass all the policies and practices relating to work performed on behalf of the organization, including the recruitment and promotion of workers; disciplinary and grievance procedures; transfer and relocation of workers; termination of employment; training and skills development; health, safety, and industrial hygiene; and any policy or practice affecting work conditions. 

Fair and safe labor practices are essential for a sustainable and responsible organization. ISO 26000 encourages organizations to uphold fair working conditions, including eliminating child labor and ensuring fair wages. 

The standard also emphasizes the importance of health and safety in the workplace.

Organizations like IKEA have implemented initiatives to promote fair labor practices and employee well-being. IKEA's "People & Planet Positive" strategy includes commitments to fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for career development

4. Environmental Responsibility

Environmental responsibility is a precondition for the survival and prosperity of human beings and critical for the well-being of future generations. As the global population and global consumption continue to increase, several environmental and social threats are posed. 

Following ISO 26000 guidance, organizations strive to minimize their environmental footprint which involves practices like reducing pollution, conserving resources, and mitigating climate change.

For example, Tesla serves as a prime example of an organization that prioritizes sustainability and environmental stewardship. Tesla's mission to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy is reflected in its innovative electric vehicles and renewable energy products.

5. Fair Operating Practices

Conducting business ethically is fundamental to building trust and long-term success. ISO 26000 emphasizes the importance of fair competition, preventing corruption, and responsible marketing practices.

Fair operating practices relate to how an organization utilizes its relationships with other entities to promote positive outcomes and sustained success. These include relationships between organizations and government agencies, as well as between organizations and their partners, suppliers, contractors, customers, competitors, and affiliated associations. 

ISO 26000 addresses fair operating practice issues such as: 

• Anti-corruption
• Responsibility for political involvement
• Fair competition
• Promoting value chain social responsibility 
• Respect for property rights

In this area, organizations like The Body Shop have implemented ethical sourcing practices and policies to promote fair trade and combat corruption. The Body Shop's "Community Fair Trade" program sources ingredients from marginalized communities, providing fair prices and economic opportunities to producers while promoting sustainable agriculture and community development.

6. Consumer Issues

Consumer protection is paramount for building trust and customer loyalty. ISO 26000 encourages organizations to provide accurate information about their products and services.  Fair labeling practices and ensuring product safety are also key areas of focus. Additionally, the standard highlights the importance of responsive and ethical customer service.

Consumer issues regarding social responsibility are related to, among other matters, fair marketing practices, protection of health and safety, sustainable consumption, dispute resolution and redress, data and privacy protection, access to essential products and services, reference to the needs of vulnerable and disadvantaged consumers, and education.

Companies like TOMS Shoes have implemented initiatives to promote consumer welfare and social impact. TOMS' "One for One" model donates a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair purchased, addressing issues of poverty and access to education

7. Community Involvement and Development

Community involvement and development are two of the most important initiatives that all organizations, public and private, can take toward developing a sustainable society.

As organizations have a role to play in contributing to the well-being of the communities where they operate, ISO 26000 encourages them to engage in philanthropy, volunteerism, and community development initiatives. This fosters positive relationships and creates a more sustainable future for all.

In the context of community involvement, Unilever is a notable example of a multinational corporation that actively engages in community development initiatives. Unilever's Sustainable Living Plan includes various programs aimed at improving the well-being of communities where it operates.

In conclusion, ISO 26000 offers businesses a thorough framework for maintaining social responsibility across various domains. By embracing these seven core subjects, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility. This not only benefits society as a whole, but also enhances brand reputation, attracts and retains talent, and ultimately contributes to the organization's long-term success.

How Can PECB Help?

PECB offers the following ISO 26000 Social Responsibility training courses designed to equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex landscape of social responsibility:

• ISO 26000 Foundation
• ISO 26000 Lead Manager

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About the Author

Vlerë Hyseni is the Digital Content Specialist at PECB. She is in charge of doing research, creating, and developing digital content for a variety of industries. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact: support@pecb.com.