Hydro is a Fortune 500 energy and aluminium supplier operating in ...

“Hydro supports the principles set forth in the Universal Declaration
of Human Rights. We shall make sure that all our operations are
conducted in accordance with basic human rights standards.”
HYDRO’S SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DIRECTIVE
Child labour
Hydro does not accept child labour and does not
employ children below the age of 16. If a child’s
rights of education, play, rest and family life are
secured, limited exceptions may be made if this
is clearly in the best interests of the child. This is
expressed in our People Policy.
The prohibition of child labour represents
a long-term social investment. Giving youngsters
the opportunity to attend school not only
improves the future prospects of the individuals
concerned, it also ensures a well-educated
workforce in years to come.
Armed security forces
In some of its locations, Hydro needs to employ
armed security forces to protect personnel,
property or business activities. It is important to
ensure that the employment of security forces is
properly controlled and does not result in abuse
of power or human rights violations.
The Voluntary Principles on Security and
Human Rights were developed on the basis
of discussions between the governments of
the United States and the United Kingdom, transnational
oil and mining companies, human rights
organizations and trade unions. The principles
provide a framework for how companies should
handle the use of security forces in accordance
with human rights. Hydro endorsed the principles
in January 2003.
Indigenous peoples
As natural resources are often located in
remote areas inhabited by indigenous peoples,
ensuring that such peoples’ interests and needs
are taken into consideration is an important
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challenge for extractive industries. Operating
in such areas may be controversial. Indigenous
peoples often represent the weakest group in
society; they have limited rights and are at risk
of discrimination. They frequently lack formal
representation in governmental structures, so
it is difficult for businesses to consult with them
directly.
The concerns of indigenous people
are voiced by numerous non-governmental
organizations (NGOs) worldwide, and developing
a constructive dialogue with these is crucial.
Indigenous peoples’ rights have also been
strengthened through international conventions
and national legislation.
Cooperation with Amnesty
Amnesty International Norway and Hydro
has a cooperation agreement on provision
of human rights education and information.
Amnesty is a valuable contributor to Hydro’s
management training programmes, and a
partner in general human rights discussions.
Amnesty has expertise on the human rights
situation in specific countries, and can assist
Hydro with information when entering countries
with major human rights challenges.
This partnership reflects Hydro’s CSR
strategy to build alliances with civil society
organizations in order to exchange knowledge
and competence for mutual benefit.
The agreement does not limit Amnesty’s
right to freely criticize Hydro.