Novartis guideline on human rights

Our Guideline on Human Rights applies throughout the Novartis group and states that we will do everything in our power to respect and promote human rights within our sphere of influence.

The Guideline acknowledges the special human rights obligations that pertain to us as a leading manufacturer of pharmaceuticals. These include, for example, the handling of patents and the pricing policy for life-saving medicines under conditions of individual and collective poverty; the specificities of clinical trials carried out in poor populations; and the alignment of research priorities with the needs of people living in absolute poverty.

At Novartis, our core values are based on the fundamental rights of every individual, such as the protection of privacy, freedom of opinion and expression, freedom of association, nondiscrimination and the right to be heard.

Our values are supported by management structures to measure progress and monitor compliance through internal and external audits and management reviews. Corporate management, global division and country unit heads (Pharma) and local business unit heads (Consumer Health) supervise implementation of and adherence to our guidelines. Actual or potential human rights impacts of Novartis activities, investments and projects are assessed yearly by a Corporate Citizenship Committee. External stakeholders are also consulted.

Should a human rights violation occur we have procedures in place, as for any alleged instance of non-compliance, to respond quickly and effectively through our Business Practices Officer and take appropriate action. Incidents of misconduct can be reported locally by associates, in their native language, using a confidential telephone line.

All Novartis associates undergo human rights awareness training (e.g. through e-learning programs) and we report publicly on our compliance with human rights as part of our commitment to the UN Global Compact. As outlined by our Guideline on Third Party Management, we give priority to suppliers who share these values, and who meet the specific human rights clauses enshrined in our Third Party Code. Novartis raises human rights issues in contract negotiations and meetings with third parties wherever this helps to create a business environment supportive of the protection of human rights.

Download the Novartis Guideline on Human Rights
(145 KB)

Learn more on the Corporate Citizenship Committee

Learn more on the Novartis Business Practices Officer

Download the Novartis Guideline on Third Party Management
(62 KB)