Sustainability
Fair Working Conditions
Fair working conditions for employees and respectful conduct in the workplace is fundamental to the way we do business.
BASF is committed to creating work environments that reflect internationally recognized labor standards and comply with all applicable laws.
This commitment is firmly anchored in the BASF Code of Conduct and BASF Group’s Policy Statement on Human Rights.
To ensure consistent implementation worldwide, BASF has defined global principles for fair labor practices. These are guided by the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Core Labour Standards, and the ILO Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy.
The following principles for fair working conditions apply at BASF:
1. No Child Labor
BASF strictly rejects all forms of child labor and excludes any activities that compromise children’s education, development, well‑being, or that endanger their health and safety.
2. No Forced Labor
BASF opposes all forms of forced labor, modern slavery, and human trafficking.
BASF promotes working conditions that uphold dignity and safety, based on internationally recognized human rights standards.
3. No Discrimination or Harassment
BASF is committed to equal opportunities and fosters an inclusive work environment. Any form of discrimination or degradation – including harassment violates our global Code of Conduct.
Further information on diversity, equity and inclusion at BASF can be found here.
4. Freedom of Association and the Right to Collective Bargaining
BASF respects employees’ right to organize and engage in collective bargaining —
within the framework of applicable laws and in constructive collaboration with employee representatives.
Approximately 90% of BASF’s employees work in entities where working conditions are governed by collective agreements with trade unions or internal employee representation bodies.
BASF remains committed to social dialogue even in countries where freedom of association is not protected to the same extent as in Europe.
Further information on employee representation can be found here.
5. Clearly Defined Working Conditions
It is essential to us to foster clearly defined and freely consented employment relationship to set the basis for a reliable and trusting collaboration between BASF and our workforce.
This creates a work environment that strengthens trust and helps prevent misunderstandings.
6. Fair Compensation
BASF’s compensation practices follow global principles and are based on position, market environment and performance — supplemented by competitive benefits.
BASF supports the UN Global Compact goal of ensuring that by 2030 employees receive a wage that enables them and their families to meet their basic needs (Living Wage). Therefore, it is regularly assessed whether employees worldwide receive adequate income under their respective local conditions. If gaps are identified, BASF works to close them.
7. Responsible Working Hours and Healthy Life Balance
BASF is committed to complying with applicable laws and collective agreements and recognizes that rest and flexible working arrangements contribute to employee wellbeing. Because legal and operational conditions vary globally, flexible working models — such as remote work,
part-time options or sabbaticals — may differ by location and role.
Further information on balancing professional and personal life can be found here.
8. Fair Disciplinary Actions
Everyone working at BASF deserves a fair assessment when it comes to disciplinary actions for workplace misconduct.
The aim is to ensure that any measures taken are proportionate, respectful, and transparent — considering individual circumstances and applicable law.
9. Fair Dismissal
BASF recognizes the importance of job security for every individual and understands the potential hardships sudden unemployment and loss of income could cause.
BASF is committed to adhering to internationally recognized dismissal principles to ensure that all employees are treated fairly and with respect.
10. Protection of Vulnerable Groups
BASF recognizes that some individuals or groups may be more likely to face challenges such as exclusion, discrimination or other forms of disadvantage in the workplace.
BASF seeks to provide appropriate support and safeguards to help ensure their dignity, safety, and equitable access to fair and responsible working conditions.
Learn more about the working environment at BASF: