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Corporate responsibility at GSK
Our Corporate Responsibility Principles

Corporate Responsibility Report 2008

Our Corporate Responsibility Principles

Our Corporate Responsibility Principles identify our key responsibility issues and provide guidance for employees on the standards to which GSK is committed:

Employment practices We will treat our employees with respect and dignity, encourage diversity and ensure fair treatment through all phases of employment. We will provide a safe and healthy working environment, support employees to perform to their full potential and take responsibility for the performance and reputation of the business. Read more about our employment practices.

Human rights We are committed to upholding the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the OECD guidelines for Multi-National Enterprises and the core labour standards set out by the International Labour Organization. We expect the same standards of our suppliers, contractors and business partners working on GSK’s behalf. Read more about our approach to human rights.

Access to medicines We will continue to research and develop medicines to treat diseases of the developing world. We will find sustainable ways to improve access to medicines for disadvantaged people, and will seek partnerships to support this activity. Read about our approach in Access to medicines.

Leadership and advocacy We will establish our own challenging standards in corporate responsibility, appropriate to the complexities and specific needs of our business, building on external guidelines and experience. We will share best practice and seek to influence others, while remaining competitive in order to sustain our business.

Community investment We will make a positive contribution to the communities in which we operate, and will invest in health and education programmes and partnerships that aim to bring sustainable improvements to under-served people in the developed and developing world. Read about our work with communities.

Engagement with stakeholders We want to understand the concerns of those with an interest in corporate responsibility issues. We will engage with a range of stakeholders and will communicate openly about how we are addressing CR issues, in ways that aim to meet the needs of different groups while allowing us to pursue legitimate business goals. Read about our stakeholder engagement.

Standards of ethical conduct We expect employees to meet high ethical standards in all aspects of our business, by conducting our activities with honesty and integrity, adhering to our CR principles, and complying with applicable laws and regulations. Read about ethical conduct.

Research and innovation In undertaking our research and in innovating:

We may explore and apply new technologies and will constructively engage stakeholders on any concerns that may arise.
We will ensure that our products are subject to rigorous scientific evaluation and testing for safety, effectiveness and quality
We will comply with or exceed all regulations and legal standards applicable to the research and development of our products