Implementation

The Global Sullivan Principles of Social Responsibility, a code of conduct built on a vision of aspiration and inclusion, provides a framework by which socially responsible companies and organizations can be aligned. The Principles are inclusive in that they embrace businesses’ existing codes of conduct and work in conjunction with them. The aspiration of the Principles is to have companies and organizations of all sizes, in widely disparate industries and cultures, working toward the common goals of human rights, social justice and economic opportunity. These Principles are truly unique; they apply to all workers, in all industries, in all countries.

Reverend Leon H. Sullivan created the Global Sullivan Principles at the request of world and industry leaders, with input from a number of multinational corporations and business associations. Reverend Sullivan’s vision was that of business working hand-in-hand with the community to advance social responsibility and the culture of peace. We urge companies large and small, as well as all types of business and nonprofit organizations, governments and education providers, to endorse the Principles and make Reverend Sullivan’s vision a lasting reality.

Each endorser of the Global Sullivan Principles makes a commitment to work towards the aspiration that all of the Principles represent, including the implementation of internal policies, procedures, training and reporting structures. Endorsing companies and organizations are asked to take part in an annual reporting process to document and share their experiences in bringing social responsibility to life. The reporting format has been designed to be flexible, transparent and easy to complete. All reports submitted will be made available on the Global Sullivan Principles website.

Reverend Sullivan’s goal also included measures to support the efforts of those who have stepped forward to endorse the Global Sullivan Principles. The reports submitted annually by endorsers will be reviewed in order to highlight efforts of note. We will also convene an annual meeting of endorsers to share the experiences, benefits and challenges of implementing the Global Sullivan Principles.

The Global Sullivan Principles are intended to be strong in aspiration, yet flexible and relevant to all types of industries and cultures. We welcome comments and input from our endorsers and other interested parties.