All of our producers are obligated to ensure equal treatment for their employees. What the obligation entails:
"All aspects relating to the employment relationship must be based on the principle of equal treatment and equal opportunity. This applies to the recruitment of new employees and the wage policy as well as training opportunities, opportunities for advancement, dismissal or retirement. VAUDE attaches great importance to ensuring that no one is discriminated against because of his national, ethnic or social origin, color of skin, gender, religious or political beliefs, membership in a labor organization or union, or with disabilities."
An obligation in and of itself is not enough, of course. Therefore, all of our producers are regularly and independently audited by organizations such as the Fair Wear Foundation. Auditors check carefully whether there are cases of discrimination. This is verified through interviews inside and outside the production site and by reviewing documents.
- How are workers recruited?
- What does the wage policy look like?
- Are men and women paid equally for the same work?
- Are men prefered for some positions even though women could do the same job, or vice versa?
- Are there any employees who are discriminated against in any manner or given advantages?
The FWF audits show that our producers fundamentally treat their employees equally. Women and men receive equal wages for equal work. In the 2016 Audits, there were two other findings with regards to equal treatment and equal opportunity. We have teamed up with our producers and worked out remedies. Our CSR team is regularly reviewing progress made on implementing these measures. Both findings have now been fully resolved.
