Respecting Human Rights

RESPECTING
HUMAN
RIGHTS

We support and respect international rules relating to human rights, and have developed the Kao Human Rights Policy, which is based on the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and are working to achieve zero human rights violations in all of our corporate activities. The Kao Human Rights Policy was first published in 2015, and was revised in 2021 with the approval of the ESG Managing Committee, which is supervised by the Board of Directors, to reflect social trends and express Kao’s commitment more strongly. The policy targets all business activities, including M&A and new projects.

The Kao Group adopted the Kao Human Rights Policy in line with the UN Guiding Principles of Business and Human Rights and undertakes initiative for respecting human rights through the whole process of Yoki-Monozukuri. The policy states that we support and respect international norms of behavior on human rights, undertake initiatives including conducting human rights due diligence and educating employees.

As a member of The Consumer Goods Forum (CGF), a global industry network of 400 retailers and manufacturers, the Kao Group supports the CGF's Forced Labour Resolution and its Priority Industry Principles: to ensure freedom of movement, that no worker should pay for a job, and that no worker should be indebted or coerced to work.

ESG keyword

  • Respect for human rights in the supply chain
  • Compliance with human rights related laws, regulations and codes in various countries and regions
  • Human rights due diligence
  • Respect for human rights in advertising

Contributions to the SDGs

Looking ahead to 2030, Kao is focused on the SDGs that have been agreed upon and adopted by the international community. As indicators for realizing a sustainable society, the SDGs set forth an integrated approach for improving the economy, society and the environment. Contributions by companies are considered extremely important to achieving the SDGs.
As indicated below, we are working to address the Kao Action topics set in the Kao ESG Commitments and Actions with the aim of achieving the SDGs.

Corresponding Sustainable Development Goals

SDGs GOAL 5:Gender equality

SDGs GOAL 8:Decent work and Economic Growth

SDGs GOAL 10:Reduce Inequalities

SDGs GOAL 17:Partnerships for the Goals

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