The meeting reviewed IKEA's global approach to building a fair and equal value chain, with a focus on promoting human rights, gender balance, fair wages, children’s rights, and work with social entrepreneurs.
Ambitions for 2030 were discussed, aiming for positive societal impact across all elements of the value chain, including co-workers, suppliers, customers, and communities.
Notable initiatives include the rollout of a Responsible Wage Practices Framework, active advocacy for human rights due diligence, and continuous improvements in inclusion and social entrepreneurship.
The discussion covered how global challenges such as inequality and climate change are influencing IKEA’s operational priorities and practices.
Action Items
No specific action items were assigned in the transcript provided.
Promoting a Fair and Equal Value Chain
IKEA recognizes its responsibility to respect human rights and improve the well-being of everyone in its value chain—including co-workers, suppliers, customers, and communities.
By 2030, IKEA aims to contribute to a fair and equal society by embedding human rights and fostering resilient societies.
Responsibility and Ethical Business Practices
The company commits to responsible growth, ensuring people throughout its operations can thrive, with a focus on those most vulnerable.
Ethical business practices are prioritized, aiming for decent, meaningful work and an inclusive culture.
IKEA advocates for fairness at the policy level through collaboration with policymakers and partners.
Human Rights Advocacy and Due Diligence
IKEA supports mandatory human rights due diligence legislation such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).
The organization participates in joint statements with business, trade unions, and civil society to promote stronger regulations and better governance.
Children’s Rights
IKEA commits to safeguarding children's rights across all stages of their value chain, from sourcing and production to marketing and sales.
Fair Wages and Living Standards
A new Responsible Wage Practices Framework and Assessment Methodology is being rolled out, focusing on equality, fair pay, dialogue, and living wages.
The framework has been validated across 65 units in 22 countries and is being implemented throughout the IKEA value chain.
Gender Balance and Inclusion
Ongoing initiatives promote gender equality and balanced representation within IKEA’s global and market-level operations.
Inclusion strategies focus on creating safe, welcoming environments and equal opportunities for all co-workers.
Support for Social Entrepreneurs
IKEA partners with social businesses to develop global products and create job opportunities for marginalized groups.
There are ongoing programs and investments aimed at supporting entrepreneurship and economic inclusion.
Addressing Inequality and Global Challenges
The company acknowledges rising global inequality, exacerbated by climate change, economic instability, and geopolitical conflicts.
IKEA recognizes the risk that these challenges pose to vulnerable populations and commits to addressing systemic risks and supporting fair transitions.
Business Culture and Ethics
IKEA’s way of doing business is grounded in company values, business ethics, and comprehensive business requirements that shape behavior internally and externally.
Decisions
Support for mandatory human rights due diligence legislation — Supported due to its potential to improve governance, human rights, and business impact across the value chain.
Open Questions / Follow-Ups
How will progress and impact of the Responsible Wage Practices Framework be measured and reported going forward?
What additional actions are planned to further support vulnerable communities as inequalities increase?