Human Rights Policy
Human Rights Policy
Updated: 12 December 2024
Introduction
At Oceania Polytechnic and Technological University (OPTU), we recognize the critical importance of human rights in fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive academic environment. This policy outlines the university's commitment to upholding international human rights standards, addressing risks, and ensuring accountability across all levels of operation. In terms of integrating human rights principles into our practices, OPTU aims to empower students, staff, and stakeholders to thrive in a community that values dignity, respect, and fairness.
1. Policy Statement
Oceania Polytechnic and Technological University (OPTU) is committed to upholding and promoting human rights in all its operations, interactions, and relationships. We align with international human rights standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions, and the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
Our policy explicitly addresses the rights of women, children, Indigenous peoples, minorities, persons with disabilities, and migrant workers and their families. It is publicly accessible through our website and communicated to all stakeholders, including employees, students, contractors, and community partners.
2. Governance and Oversight
A designated board committee oversees the implementation and compliance with this policy.
Specific roles, such as Human Rights Officers, are assigned across different organizational levels to manage and mitigate human rights risks.
There are no incentive schemes linked to human rights performance at this stage, but this is subject to future review.
3. Risk Analysis and Management
OPTU conducts regular risk assessments to identify, analyze, and prioritize potential negative impacts on human rights throughout its operations and partnerships. This includes:
Monitoring human rights compliance across our supply chain.
Engaging with affected communities and stakeholders.
Addressing key risks, such as child labor, forced labor, discrimination, and the right to freedom of association.
4. Preventive Measures
To mitigate human rights risks, OPTU implements:
Training programs for employees and contractors on human rights awareness and compliance.
Regular audits and supplier assessments to ensure adherence to our human rights standards.
Procedures to eliminate workplace discrimination and ensure equal pay for equal work.
A living wage commitment for employees and regular reviews of working conditions.
Measures to prevent environmental risks and pollution within our operations and procurement.
5. Grievance Mechanism
OPTU provides accessible and transparent grievance mechanisms for all stakeholders, including employees, supply chain workers, and community members. The mechanism covers issues such as labor rights, discrimination, environmental concerns, and other human rights violations. Reports can be submitted anonymously, and all complaints are addressed promptly and effectively.
6. Reporting and Transparency
OPTU reports annually on the implementation of its human rights policy and due diligence processes.
Our human rights report includes topics such as risk analysis, preventive measures, grievance mechanisms, and remedial actions taken.
Documentation related to risk assessments and complaints is stored for at least seven years.
7. Continuous Improvement
OPTU commits to:
Regularly updating the human rights risk analysis to reflect evolving risks and circumstances.
Monitoring the effectiveness of implemented measures through annual reviews and stakeholder feedback.
Promoting dialogue with potentially affected parties to ensure accountability and transparency.
8. International Commitments
OPTU adheres to international conventions, including:
The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants.
The Minamata Convention on Mercury.
The Basel Convention on Hazardous Wastes.
9. Responsibility and Accountability
The university expects all members of its community to adhere to this policy. Violations will be addressed through appropriate disciplinary measures or corrective actions, as necessary.
10. Contact Information
For questions, concerns, or to report a violation of this policy, contact the OPTU Human Rights Office at optuniversity.edu@gmail.com