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When crisis hits, businesses need to act fast — but responsibly.
From armed conflict to natural disasters, political instability to global pandemics, crises can cause major disruption to global supply chains. But in every context, the rights and wellbeing of workers must remain a priority.
Supporting business through complexity
At ETI we support companies in navigating crisis situations with a strong foundation in responsible business practices. Our expertise helps businesses understand what responsible action looks like in the midst of uncertainty — offering practical guidance that is grounded in international standards, developed in collaboration with trade unions, NGOs and businesses.
When disasters strike, companies can face difficult decisions: Should operations be paused? How should relationships with suppliers be managed? What responsibilities do buyers have towards affected workers? ETI works alongside our members to help them make informed decisions that align with their commitments to responsible business conduct.
Guidance in real time
Crises evolve quickly, and so must the guidance companies rely on. ETI has developed a trusted approach to crisis response, shaped by over 25 years of experience. We work closely with our members and partners to provide timely advice and produce clear, actionable guidance that sets out what responsible business conduct should look like at each stage of a crisis.
Our crisis response work has included:
- Providing practical guidance to companies during the COVID-19 pandemic to safeguard workers’ incomes and rights
- Supporting responsible disengagement in high-risk sourcing regions
- Engaging with companies sourcing from conflict-affected areas to help them navigate challenges in line with responsible business expectations
- Collaborating with local stakeholders to understand on-the-ground realities and amplify worker voices
As part of our Collective Action programme, we bring companies together to strengthen their individual and collective responses — increasing impact and reducing harm to vulnerable workers.
Crises put pressure on companies to act quickly — but decisions made in the moment can have lasting effects on workers’ lives. At ETI, we help businesses find a path through crisis that is grounded in responsibility and respect for rights.
Danny Miles, Head of Collective Action
Strengthening due diligence in unpredictable times
More than ever, businesses are expected to be prepared for the unpredictable. Strengthening human rights due diligence is key to building resilience and responding responsibly to crisis. ETI offers support through:
- Bespoke advice and crisis response support for member companies
- Risk assessments and scenario planning
- Practical tools to embed responsible sourcing through supply chains
- Peer learning and shared frameworks for action
Whether responding to a sudden political upheaval, natural disaster or a long-running humanitarian crisis, companies don’t have to face these challenges alone. ETI is here to help you navigate uncertainty — and uphold your responsibilities to workers every step of the way.
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