This metric is based on the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G4 Guidelines. Indicator G4-11 -  ‘Report the percentage of total employees covered by collective bargaining agreements’. 

The percentage of employees covered by collective bargaining agreements is the most direct way to demonstrate an organization’s practices in relation to freedom of association.

Freedom of association is a human right as defined by international declarations and conventions, particularly International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions 87 ‘Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention’ and 98 ‘Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining Convention’. Collective bargaining is an important form of stakeholder engagement that helps build institutional frameworks and is seen by many as contributing to a stable society. Together with corporate governance, collective bargaining is part of an overall framework that contributes to responsible management. It is an instrument used by parties to facilitate collaborative efforts to enhance the positive social impacts of an organization.