The RBA Code of Conduct is a set of social, environmental and ethical industry standards.
The RBA Code of Conduct is a set of social, environmental and ethical industry standards. The standards set out in the Code of Conduct reference international norms and standards including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ILO International Labor Standards, OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, ISO and SA standards, and many more. While the Code of Conduct originated with the electronics industry in mind, it is applicable to and used by many industries beyond electronics.
Version 7.0 of the Code of Conduct went into effect on January 1, 2021. Version 7.0 can be viewed here in English and below in multiple languages. In case of any translation discrepencies, the English version takes precedent.
The revised "Definition of Fees," which also went into effect on January 1, 2021, can be viewed here.
In addition, to more fully understand the RBA Code of Conduct requirements, please view the latest Code Interpretation Guidance, which can be found within the public version of the VAP Operations Manual v7.0 here in English. Additional VAP guidance documents can be found on this page of our website.
View upcoming trainings on the RBA Code of Conduct and VAP here.
RBA Code of Conduct 7.0 [effective Jan. 1, 2021]
Download in English
Code Review Process
The RBA Code of Conduct is updated every three years to ensure its relevance to international norms and issues members may face in their supply chains. Code of Conduct review processes are extensive [typically one year in duration] and follow a thorough consultation process with members and stakeholders.
Multinational enterprises, development and decent work: the approach of the MNE Declaration
25 September–20 October 2023
Introduction to the course
This 4-week online course looks at the potential of enterprises to contribute to the achievement of decent work for all, a universal goal recognized in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the ILO Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy [MNE Declaration], and touches upon issues related to Business and Decent Work, Responsible Business Conduct [RBC], sustainable investment and trade and social dialogue amongst others.
Who attends this course?
The course is designed for representatives of governments and employers' and workers' organizations responsible for socio-economic development, trade, or with a demonstrated interest in policies related to socio-economic development, foreign direct investment and responsible business and operations of multinational enterprises. This course is also of particular interest for professionals working on labour rights related RBC. Course learning materials and tuition will be offered online in English. The following requirements are therefore essential to participate in this course: - The ability to use a computer with the internet access - Good knowledge of written/spoken English
In March 2017, the MNE Declaration was substantially amended. The changes
respond to increased international investment and trade and the growth of global supply chains. Moreover, the revision addresses issues related to social security, forced labour, transition from the informal to the formal economy, wages, due diligence processes, grievance mechanisms and access to remedy for victims of business-related human rights violations.
Following the update of the Declaration, ACTRAV has decided to update its guidance document “The ILO MNE Declaration: What’s in it for Workers?”. The update strives to provide a forward-looking view on approaches and pledges how workers and trade unions can successfully use the MNE Declaration in practice, particularly in respect to its new elements.