Respecting Human Rights

RESPECTING
HUMAN
RIGHTS

Kao promotes initiatives to respect human rights in line with international standards by listening to the voices of employees and other stakeholders, based on the fundamental value of “Walking the right path,” as set forth in the Kao Way, the corporate philosophy that guides its business activities.

Kao 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, Kao 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.

Kao’s Approach & Activities

Respecting Human Rights (Kao Sustainability Report 2026)

Read about Kao’s value created to address social issues in this area, policies, framework, and achievements.

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.