Human rights
Our sustainability work is based on the conviction that respect for human rights, the environment, climate, labour law and anti-corruption is important for our stakeholders and for our business. Swedbank is committed to respecting internationally recognised human rights and international humanitarian law in all areas of its operations, including working conditions. The promotion of a sound and sustainable financial system, alongside with prevention of financial crime are essential elements in this regard.
For Swedbank, “human rights” in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, are defined as universal rights that should allow individuals the freedom to lead a dignified life, free from fear or want, and free to express independent beliefs.
Human rights policy commitments
Swedbank’s human rights policy commitments are stated in the Swedbank Sustainability Policy. Swedbank’s commitments include adherence to nationally adopted UN treaties and conventions on human rights and labour law, as well as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights which provide a framework for responsible business conduct. The Policy is adopted by the Board of Directors and updated annually.
Sustainability due diligence
Swedbank shall integrate sustainability due diligence across its operations, subsidiaries, and business relationships – which include identifying, preventing and mitigating adverse human rights impacts. Priority shall be given to areas with the highest risk for adverse impact caused by, contributed to, or linked to Swedbank’s operations. Ongoing stakeholder engagement supports the identification and management of potential and actual impacts. Swedbank’s anonymous whistleblowing process encourages employees and other stakeholders to report suspected breaches of Swedbank’s obligations and policies.
Swedbank Group Operational Sustainability Committee
Swedbank Group Operational Sustainability Committee manages sustainability-related matters such as human rights, tax issues, environmental challenges and sustainability governance at the Group level. The Committee is led by the Head of Group Sustainability with a mandate from the CEO.
Related links
- Universal Declaration on Human Rights (un.org)
- International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ohchr.org/)
- International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ohchr.org)
- Convention on the Rights of the Chiild (ohchr.org)
- ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (ilo.org)
Thoughts, suggestions or complaints on human rights?
Contact us about sustainability
Comments or suggestions with regard to Swedbank’s sustainability work and ambitions (including human rights): send an email to Group Sustainability.
Whistleblowing
Report on irregularities or failures by Swedbank to comply with laws, external and internal rules or regulations connected to the bank’s operations (including suppliers and companies that Swedbank finances or in which it invests): use the internal alert (whistleblowing) process.