In August 2008, GSCP has launched a consultation process on a set of draft guidelines for audit reference tools. These draft guidelines were prepared by the GSCP Expert Working Group on Audit Systems and Methodology. The Group’s work builds on the 2nd step of the GSCP working plan, aimed at identifying best practices in auditing processes and practices at production sites.
As per GSCP’s objectives, this approach has been designed to provide a framework to build comparability and transparency between existing systems. It is expected to allow for more consistency and to facilitate the mutual recognition of audit results and processes. It is not a substitute to existing tools and processes.
Ultimately, these draft guidelines for audit reference tools, which will be openly available, may voluntarily be either:
- integrated in part or in full by companies into their existing system
- used by companies or initiatives as a reference against which to compare their existing tools

The consultation process is open to any company or organisation that wishes to share best practices on audit processes and methodology.
If you wish to participate and comment on, amend and strengthen the draft guidelines for audit reference tools, you may share your comments and expertise through the link below:

The consultation process will run until 31 October 2008.
More info on the full mandate of the Expert Working Group on Audit Systems and Methodology is available on GSCP Working Plan/ Step 2.

>> The Executive Board launches a Module on Environment

In response to high demand from various companies to extend the scope of GSCP reference tools to environmental concerns on production sites, the GSCP Executive Board has decided to launch an expert working group that will develop an environmental module for the integration of basic site-specific environmental requirements within the Global Social Compliance Programme.
The work of the Group will start in August 2008.

>> Next GSCP General Meeting coming soon – join us in San Francisco, on Sept. 24-25 2008!

GSCP's main goal through convergence is to facilitate the remediation of the root causes of non-compliance. The Programme offers a forum on remediation where companies can openly discuss generic and/or site-specific short- and long-term issues in remediation methods. To participate, please contact Claudine Musitelli, GSCP Senior Manager, c.musitelli@ciesnet.com
More information on GSCP General Meetings is available on GSCP Working Plan/ Step 6.