Transparency on workplace inclusion and equal opportunity
Published date: 01 July 2025
Public consultation marks next phase in review of GRI Labor Standards
A process is underway to significantly revise GRI sustainability standards that address how organizations report their measures to tackle discrimination and ensure the human rights of all workers are protected.
Part of a wider review of GRI’s labor-related disclosures, a global public comment period is now open for feedback on the exposure drafts for two Topic Standards, following approval by the Global Sustainability Standards Board (GSSB):
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Diversity and Inclusion (to update GRI 405): includes disclosures and metrics to increase transparency on how diversity and inclusion policies are embedded in organizational strategies and operations, including management oversight and accountability.
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Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity (to update GRI 406): spans the causes of both direct and indirect discrimination, requiring a detailed breakdown of recorded incidents, and includes opportunities for vulnerable and under-represented groups.
The drafting of these Standards has been built on the conventions and standards of the International Labour Organization (ILO), which address the fundamental rights of workers to freedom of discrimination, violence or harassment.
The GSSB designated a review of all GRI labor-related Standards as a priority, given the universal recognition that human rights must be protected, with employers required to demonstrate how they are respecting labor rights and safeguarding the wellbeing of workers. Diversity, inclusion, non-discrimination and equal opportunity are central themes when it comes to fair and inclusive employment. We urge all stakeholders – from workers’ representatives to employers and investors – to take part in this consultation to ensure that the revised GRI Standards are not only robust and practical, but capable of driving meaningful, lasting change for workers everywhere.
Anne Lindsay, GSSB memberThe public consultation is open until 15 September, with stakeholders asked to review the completeness, clarity, relevance and feasibility of the exposure drafts, before submitting their response via a questionnaire.
Two global webinars are scheduled, with opportunities to hear about two Standards and the proposed changes in greater detail. These include speakers from the ILO and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE). Registration is open, with the sessions taking place on 2 July (0900 CEST) and 8 July 1700 CEST).
Rooted in the human rights-based approach and due diligence, GRI’s Labor Standards review aims to reflect stakeholder expectations for reporting on the steps organizations need to take to protect human rights by ensuring decent work and dignity for workers. In total, eight GRI Topic Standards will be revised. Subject to GSSB approval, the finalized and updated Labor Standards will start to publish from mid-2026.
The Labor Project is being completed in four phases. Public comment periods have already been completed for the first two phases (employment conditions and practices, and working life and career development). Still to come this year is one final stage to address rights and protections at work.
The development of these exposure drafts has been guided by a Technical Committee, which includes tripartite representation from organizations representing workers, employers and labor unions, supported by a multi-stakeholder Advisory Group.