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An Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy outlines how an Austrian organization prevents and addresses modern forms of exploitation in its operations and supply chains. This policy follows Austria's strict labor laws and the EU's directives on preventing forced labor, helping companies protect vulnerable workers and maintain ethical business practices.

The policy requires businesses to conduct regular risk assessments, train staff to spot warning signs, and set up clear reporting channels for concerns. It also establishes due diligence procedures for checking suppliers and business partners, ensuring they meet Austrian workforce protection standards and international human rights commitments. Companies use this policy to demonstrate their compliance and commitment to fighting labor exploitation.

You need an Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy when your Austrian business operates in high-risk sectors like manufacturing, construction, or agriculture, or works with suppliers from regions known for labor exploitation. This policy becomes essential when expanding operations, entering new markets, or bidding on major contracts where proof of ethical labor practices is required.

The policy is particularly important when working with international supply chains, participating in public tenders, or seeking partnerships with larger corporations that demand strong human rights commitments. Austrian companies also need this policy when applying for certain EU funding programs or demonstrating compliance with the upcoming EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive.

• Basic Supply Chain Policy: Focuses on monitoring direct suppliers and immediate business partners, suitable for small to medium Austrian businesses with limited international exposure
• Comprehensive Corporate Policy: Covers entire supply chains, subsidiary operations, and detailed reporting mechanisms, typically used by large Austrian corporations
• Industry-Specific Policy: Tailored for high-risk sectors like construction or agriculture, with specific risk indicators and control measures
• International Trade Policy: Enhanced due diligence requirements for businesses working with partners in countries with higher exploitation risks
• Public Tender Policy: Meets stricter government and EU procurement requirements, including detailed audit trails and compliance reporting

• Corporate Legal Teams: Draft and update the Anti-Slavery Policy, ensuring compliance with Austrian labor laws and EU regulations
• Board Members: Review and approve the policy, taking ultimate responsibility for its implementation
• HR Managers: Train staff, monitor internal compliance, and handle reporting procedures
• Procurement Officers: Apply policy requirements when selecting and auditing suppliers
• Department Heads: Ensure their teams understand and follow policy guidelines
• External Auditors: Verify compliance and report on policy effectiveness
• Supply Chain Partners: Must demonstrate compliance through contractual agreements

• Supply Chain Mapping: Document all suppliers, contractors, and business partners, including their locations and risk levels
• Risk Assessment: Analyze your operations and industry-specific vulnerabilities in line with Austrian labor standards
• Current Practices: Review existing procurement procedures and supplier agreements
• Reporting Systems: Set up clear channels for reporting concerns and violations
• Training Needs: Identify which staff need specialized awareness training
• Legal Requirements: Gather relevant Austrian labor laws and EU directives
• Stakeholder Input: Consult key departments like HR, procurement, and legal for policy alignment

• Policy Statement: Clear commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in operations
• Scope Definition: Detailed coverage of Austrian operations, subsidiaries, and supply chains
• Due Diligence Procedures: Specific steps for supplier assessment and monitoring
• Risk Assessment Framework: Methods for identifying and evaluating exploitation risks
• Reporting Mechanisms: Confidential channels for raising concerns and whistleblower protection
• Training Requirements: Staff awareness and competency development programs
• Enforcement Measures: Consequences for non-compliance and remedial actions
• Review Process: Annual policy evaluation and update procedures

While both an Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy and a Compliance and Ethics Policy address ethical business conduct, they serve distinct purposes in Austrian organizations. The Anti-Slavery policy specifically targets forced labor and exploitation risks, while a Compliance and Ethics Policy covers broader ethical standards and regulatory requirements.

• Scope and Focus: Anti-Slavery policies concentrate on supply chain due diligence and labor exploitation prevention, while Compliance and Ethics policies cover multiple areas including corruption, conflicts of interest, and general business conduct
• Legal Requirements: Anti-Slavery policies align with specific EU anti-trafficking directives and Austrian labor laws, whereas Compliance policies address wider regulatory obligations
• Implementation: Anti-Slavery policies require specific supplier monitoring and risk assessments, while Compliance policies typically involve broader internal controls and reporting systems
• Stakeholder Impact: Anti-Slavery policies primarily affect procurement and supplier relationships, while Compliance policies guide all employee behavior and business operations