Background

Acting social responsibly in a globalized economy has become a major issue for trade as tough competition and decreasing tolerance with regard to poor working conditions in production facilities represent a huge challenge for retailing companies as well as for suppliers. Today’s retailers and suppliers need to meet requirements of high quality, low prices and socially fair produced goods.

What is BSCI?

BSCI stands for Business Social Compliance Initiative, a common and standardized European approach for monitoring social standards, in all supplier countries for all consumer goods. It tries to involve all stakeholders in Europe and supplier countries so there are no issues of competition between countries, suppliers, and retailers.

Is BSCI a certificate?

BSCI is not a certification system; rather it provides a specific process with uniform management instruments for Members, suppliers, auditors and qualifiers. This approach ensures uniform audit procedures and evaluation thus comparability of the results.

Who founded BSCI?

The Foreign Trade Association (FTA), based in Brussels, was founded in 1977 as a non-profit organization. It represents the interests of importing retailers on foreign trade issues and lobbies on their behalf. Its members include companies and associations from 10 EU countries. In March 2003 the FTA formally founded BSCI, for the purpose of developing the tools and procedures for the BSCI Programme. All BSCI Member companies commit themselves to the objectives of the BSCI and subsequently involve their suppliers in this system. It is made sure that no company uses its participation in the BSCI for window-dressing. BSCI members comprise mainly of Nordic and German companies.

Requirements?

The following requirements are of particular importance and are implemented in a developmental approach:

1. Legal Compliance

2. Freedom of Association and the Right to Collective Bargaining

3. Prohibition of Discrimination

4. Compensation

5. Working Hours

6. Workplace Health and Safety

7. Prohibition of Child Labour

8. Prohibition of Forced Labour and Disciplinary Measures

9. Environment and Safety Issues

10. Global Art Gifts has recognized by BSCI.