It’s essential that the global transition to a decarbonised economy powered by renewable energy is a just transition that’s underpinned by respect for human rights.
Meridian is committed to respecting human rights and recognises human rights as being universal and inherent to us all regardless of nationality, sex or gender, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language or any other status. Human rights include freedom from slavery, forced labour and child labour, the right to work and take part in cultural life, freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, a safe and healthy work environment, freedom from discrimination and all other rights included in the International Bill of Human Rights.
We work within the framework of New Zealand’s human rights legislation, prohibitions on discrimination, and New Zealand’s labour laws, which include protections for the right to collective bargaining, equal opportunities and the prevention of unfair treatment on the basis of irrelevant personal characteristics.
We also recognise the indigenous rights of iwi, which are consistent with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Our Board-approved Code of Conduct reflects this focus.
In addition, Meridian is committed to respecting internationally recognised human rights, in line with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. These include all rights under the United Nations International Bill of Human Rights and the principles concerning fundamental rights in the International Labour Organization’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.
Our participation in the United Nations Global Compact means we’re committed to continually aligning our strategies and operations with 10 universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption.