OSCE Presence in Albania and BiznesAlbania sign the Code of Ethics

OSCE Presence in Albania, in collaboration with “BiznesAlbania” association have signed on Wednesday the Code of Ethics for the abolishment of work for children under 18 years old. The accord was signed by the Vice President of the OSCE Presence, Robert Wilton and the President of “BiznesAlbania”, Luan Bregasi.

Through this Code, businesses must foster their efforts on supporting Children’s Rights. The Code incorporates a series of commitments that “BiznesAlbania” undertakes in order to respect Children Rights within the business framework.

The Vice President of OSCE Presence to Albania, Robert Wilton, expressed his opinion on children’s obligatory work exploitation which involves a serious Human Rights violence. He emphasized that based on reports, in Albania children work in the agricultural, textile, fabric, shoe production and mine sectors.

Addressing children’s work in the economy sectors is a highly difficult task, continued Wilton, but by working together we could find solutions. Therefore, highlighted he, the partnership between the OSCE and BiznesAlbania is of such importance.

“The Code of Ethics displayed today may be a solution. Banning children’s exploitation in the worst forms of work and their employment under the minimal age, adhering to law, constitutes a known standard. “– stated OSCE representative.

Whereas, the President of BiznesAlbania, Luan Bregasi emphasized that this is the best opportunity to be auto critical. According to him, many businesses have as priority their profits and not the Code of Ethics.

Whereas, the Vice Minister of Economic Development, Trade, Entrepreneurshi and Tourism, Brunilda Paskali stated that it is of paramount importance the development of social awareness of companies. “This Code aims at an increase of awareness among companies and their engagement in approving and respecting of an ethical code on banning obligatory children’s work in private businesses,” – stated Paskali.

The Code of Ethics was compiled within the framework of OSCE Presence project. The project is developed in collaboration with “BiznesAlbania” and with the Ministry of Economic Development, Trade, Entrepreneurship and Tourism, financed by the Italian government.

News source/photo credis: ATA