Dear readers, This report describes what Daimler means by ...

Daimler 360 GRAD - FAKTEN zur Nachhaltigkeit 2008
Daimler Nachhaltigkeitsbericht 2008 / Employees / External statement
In 2002, the World Employee Committee, the International Metalworkers’ Federation, and Daimler AG agreed on
the “Principles of Social Responsibility,” which include obligations to suppliers and dealerships. A total of 16
complaints regarding violations of these principles has been lodged since that time, whereby the General Works
Council reports that 14 of these have been satisfactorily settled. Two recent complaints are still being
addressed. Although the Principles of Social Responsibility are based on the Global Compact and ILO
conventions, the loose formulation of the principles appears to pose a problem. A special review of how to
adhere to the principles and the obligations they stipulate toward second and third tier suppliers has yet to be
conducted. The approach to be taken in countries that deny workers the right to organize in trade unions
represents another key challenge.
Daimler is addressing these issues by negotiating to join the Automotive Industrial Action Group, which, for
example, offers training programs for suppliers in emerging markets. Daimler has also been working with other
European automakers since summer 2007 to develop uniform CSR standards for the entire supply chain.
Employee representatives must be included in these processes, as they helped develop the principles in the first
place.
Dr. Beate Feuchte
Düsseldorf, May 2008
Dr. Beate Feuchte is an academic consultant of the Hans Böckler Foundation’s CSR project team.
The Hans Böckler Foundation deals with co-determination, research linked to the world of work, and the support of students
on behalf of the Confederation of German Trade Unions (DGB). The foundation promotes co-determination as a key principle
of a democratic society and seeks to expand the scope of co-determination wherever possible.