Integrity Code. In addition to compliance with legal regulations, Daimler’s principles of ethical business conduct are anchored in its Integrity Code, which is based on the company’s core values. In addition to rules of general conduct, the Integrity Code also defines for example requirements on conduct in international business, handling conflicts of interest, equality issues, combating corruption, the role of internal monitoring systems, and the requirement to fulfill legal standards and other internal and external regulations.

Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics, which was approved in July 2003, extends the provisions of the Integrity Code to specifically address Board members and managers who have a material influence on planning and reporting in the context of annual and quarterly financial statements. The provisions of the code aim to prevent incorrect behavior and to promote not only ethical behavior but also the complete, appropriate, accurate, timely and understandable reporting of corporate information.

Principles of Social Responsibility. Many of Daimler’s internal rules and principles of conduct make specific reference to the Global Compact – above all the Principles of Social Responsibility, which are integrated in the Integrity Code. These are binding for the entire Group and apply worldwide. In the Principles of Social Responsibility, Daimler respects and supports internationally recognized human and employee rights such as the condemnation of child and forced labor and the support of freedom of coalition, and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity and “equal pay for equal work.”

Corporate Policies. Daimler’s Corporate Policies, being the next level, were drawn up in line with the core values and the Integrity Code and make them even more concrete. They have been approved by the Compliance Committee and the Board of Management. In addition to existing policies (e.g. on occupational health and safety), another seven Corporate Policies were published in October 2006. Their content focuses on protection against corruption, protection of corporate property, dealing with donations, and avoiding conflicts of interest. Also resolved by the Board of Management are the Environmental Guidelines, in which the Group demonstrates its commitment to integrated, preventive environmental protection – an objective that has been further extended and substantiated since the introduction of the Environmental Handbook in 1993, which is valid throughout the Group.

Corporate Guidelines. Derived from the Corporate Policies, the Corporate Guidelines offer even more specific principles of behavior. Examples include the worldwide environmental and data protection guidelines. Another five clarifying guidelines were adopted in October 2006.

Local guidance documents and handbooks. Supplementing the Integrity Code, Corporate Policies and Corporate Guidelines, guidance documents and explanatory handbooks such as the newly created Anti-Bribery Handbook are in place at all operational locations worldwide. These manuals contain background information, practical examples and explanatory notes on the implementation of these policies and guidelines.