Human Rights

Abbott believes in the dignity of every human being and respects individual rights as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These principles are reflected in our company’s mission and core values. While governments have the primary responsibility to respect, protect, promote and fulfill the human rights of their citizens, Abbott recognizes that companies play a supporting role in promoting human rights within their spheres of influence.

At Abbott, we contribute to the fulfillment of human rights through compliance with laws and regulations wherever we have operations, as well as through our policies and programs.

Our Guidelines:

• We encourage open communication between management and employees.
• We respect employees' right to associate freely, join or not join labor unions, seek representation and join workers’ councils.
• We adhere to and enforce child labor laws and laws prohibiting any form of forced, bonded or indentured labor or involuntary prison labor.
• We provide compensation and benefits that are competitive and comply with applicable laws for minimum wages, overtime hours and mandated benefits.
• We provide a healthy and safe working environment.
• We promote diversity in the work force. We do not discriminate against any employee for reasons such as race, religion, color, age, gender, ethnicity, disability, religion, marital status and any other status protected by law.
• We do not tolerate harassment and harsh or inhumane treatment in the workplace.
• We are committed to the protection of individuals’ privacy.

In December 2008, Abbott and over 230 other companies that have made a public commitment to human rights were recognized by Realizing Rights and Business & Human Rights Resource Centre on the 60th anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights.