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Code
of Business Principles


Standard of
Conduct
We conduct our operations with honesty, integrity and openness,
and with respect for the human rights and interests of our
employees.
We shall similarly respect the legitimate interests of those
with whom we have relationships.
Obeying the Law
Unilever companies are required to comply with the laws and
regulations of the countries in which they operate.
Employees
Unilever is committed to diversity in a working environment
where there is mutual trust and respect and where everyone
feels responsible for the performance and reputation of our
company.
We will recruit, employ and promote employees on the sole
basis of the qualifications and abilities needed for the work
to be performed.
We are committed to safe and healthy working conditions for
all employees. We will not use any form of forced, compulsory
or child labour.
We are committed to working with employees to develop and
enhance each individual's skills and capabilities.
We respect the dignity of the individual and the right of
employees to freedom of association. We will maintain good
communications with employees through company based information
and consultation procedures.
Consumers
Unilever is committed to providing branded products and services
which consistently offer value in terms of price and quality,
and which are safe for their intended use. Products and services
will be accurately and properly labelled, advertised and communicated.
Shareholders
Unilever will conduct its operations in accordance with internationally
accepted principles of good corporate governance. We will
provide timely, regular and reliable information on our activities,
structure, financial situation and performance to all shareholders.
Business Partners
Unilever is committed to establishing mutually beneficial
relations with our suppliers, customers and business partners.
In our business dealings we expect our partners to adhere
to business principles consistent with our own.
Community Involvement
Unilever strives to be a trusted corporate citizen and, as
an integral part of society, to fulfill our responsibilities
to the societies and communities in which we operate.
Public Activities
Unilever companies are encouraged to promote and defend their
legitimate business interests.
Unilever will co-operate with governments and other organizations,
both directly and through bodies such as trade associations,
in the development of proposed legislation and other regulations
which may affect legitimate business interests.
Unilever neither supports political parties nor contributes
to the funds of groups whose activities are calculated to
promote party interests.
The Environment
Unilever is committed to making continuous improvements in
the management of our environmental impact and to the longer-term
goal of developing a sustainable business.
Unilever will work in partnership with others to promote environmental
care, increase understanding of environmental issues and disseminate
good practice.
Innovation
In our scientific innovation to meet consumer needs we will
respect the concerns of our consumers and of society. We will
work on the basis of sound science, applying rigorous standards
of product safety.
Competition
Unilever believes in vigorous yet fair competition and supports
the development of appropriate competition laws. Unilever
companies and employees will conduct their operations in accordance
with the principles of fair competition and all applicable
regulations.
Business Integrity
Unilever does not give or receive, whether directly or indirectly,
bribes or other improper advantages for business or financial
gain. No employee may offer, give or receive any gift or payment
which is, or may be construed as being, a bribe. Any demand
for, or offer of, a bribe must be rejected immediately and
reported to management.
Unilever accounting records and supporting documents must
accurately describe and reflect the nature of the underlying
transactions. No undisclosed or unrecorded account, fund or
asset will be established or maintained.
Conflicts of Interests
All Unilever employees are expected to avoid personal activities
and financial interests which could conflict with their responsibilities
to the company. Unilever employees must not seek gain for
themselves or others through misuse of their positions.
Compliance - Monitoring - Reporting
Compliance with these principles is an essential element in
our business success. The Unilever Board is responsible for
ensuring these principles and are communicated to, and understood
and observed by, all employees.
Day-to-day responsibility is delegated to the senior management
of the regions and operating companies. They are responsible
for implementing these principles, if necessary through more
detailed guidance tailored to local needs.
Assurance of compliance is given and monitored each year.
Compliance with the Code is subject to review by the Board
supported by the Audit Committee of the Board and the Corporate
Risk Committee.
Any breaches of the Code must be reported in accordance with
the procedures specified by the Joint Secretaries. The Board
of Unilever will not criticise management for any loss of
business resulting from adherence to these principles and
other mandatory policies and instructions. The Board of Unilever
expects employees to bring to their attention, or to that
of senior management, any breach or suspected breach of these
principles.
Provision has been made for employees to be able to report
in confidence and no employee will suffer as a consequence
of doing so.
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