1. PURPOSE

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ED4S is committed to upholding the highest standards of human rights in all aspects of its operations, including relationships with employees, delegates, suppliers, clients, and other stakeholders. 

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This policy aligns with:

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• Canadian law: Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Canadian Human Rights Act, Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, Employment Equity principles. 

• International standards: UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, ISO 26000 (Social Responsibility). 

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ED4S seeks to foster a culture of integrity, fairness, dignity, and respect while preventing human rights violations in its operations and supply chain. 

2. SCOPE

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This policy applies to:

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• All ED4S employees and contractors 

• All suppliers, vendors, and external trainers engaged by ED4S 

• Delegates and clients during training sessions or workshops

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All stakeholders are expected to adhere to these human rights standards. 

3. Principles
 

3.1 Respect for Fundamental Rights and Freedoms 
 

• Uphold the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Quebec Human Rights Code. 

• Treat everyone fairly, protecting against discrimination, harassment, and inequity. 

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3.2 Equal Opportunity
 

• Promote equality in employment and engagement, with focus on: 

  • Women 

  • Persons with disabilities 

  • Indigenous peoples 

  • Visible minorities
     

• Remove barriers to fair treatment in hiring, promotion, training, and day-to-day interactions. 
   

3.3 Prohibition of Discrimination and Harassment

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• Maintain a work and learning environment free from discrimination, harassment, or intimidation. 

• Applicable grounds include race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, age, or any protected characteristic under Canadian or Quebec law.

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3.4 Zero Tolerance for Modern Slavery and Forced Labour 
 

• ED4S will not engage or condone forced labor, child labor, or human trafficking in any part of its operations or supply chain. 

• Suppliers are expected to adhere to the same standards. 

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3.5 Human Rights Due Diligence
 

• All suppliers and contractors undergo screening and onboarding, including: 

  • Evidence of compliance with human rights and labor standards 

  • References or certifications where relevant

• Periodic review and monitoring of third parties to ensure continued compliance. 

4. TRAINING AND AWARENESS
 

• All staff and external trainers receive mandatory training on human rights obligations, anti-discrimination, and ethical practices. 

• Delegates are informed of expected standards of respect and conduct during training sessions. 

• Training is updated annually or when legal requirements change. 

5. REPORTING AND GRIEVANCE MECHANISM

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• Anyone who experiences or observes human rights violations can report via: 

  • Email: maria@ed4s.org 

  • Phone: 1-514-623-6279 

• Reports are confidential, and ED4S prohibits retaliation. 

• All reports are investigated promptly, and corrective actions are taken where required. 

• Serious cases may involve engagement with the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE). 

6. RISK ASSESSMENT AND EXCLUSIONS
 

• Human rights risks are assessed for all operations, suppliers, and contractors. 

• High-risk industries (e.g., textile, mining, agriculture) are not part of ED4S operations. 

• Regional risk is monitored, but ED4S maintains its commitment to ethical conduct worldwide, particularly in training and educational activities. 

7. GOVERNANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
 

• President/CEO holds ultimate responsibility for policy compliance. 

• All managers are responsible for implementing human rights practices in day-to-day operations. 

• Policies and compliance are reviewed annually, with updates communicated to all stakeholders. 

• Documentation of training, due diligence, complaints, and corrective actions is maintained for at least 5 years. 

8. CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
 

ED4S commits to: 

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• Regular review of supplier practices, training programs, and operational processes 

• Continuous improvement based on lessons learned, feedback, and evolving legal standards 

• Transparent reporting of human rights performance where appropriate 

9. CONTACT AND INQUIRIES
 

For questions or to report concerns, contact: 

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Maria Maisuradze, President & CEO 

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• Email: maria@ed4s.org 

• Phone: 1-514-623-6279 

Last Reviewed

December 2025