Compliance

Compliance Compliance

Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group

(Code of Conduct)

Preliminary Remark

Diehl carries out its business activities both in agreement with the laws and regulations of public authorities in the countries where its employees work in accordance with the principles described here. All employees on all hierarchical levels, as well as the executive bodies, are to comply with them without exception. Unfair or even illegal practices are not compatible with our Code of Conduct.
 
We therefore attach importance to a working environment in which employees address compliance issues openly and discuss them with their superiors as well as with the Compliance Organization. Our goal is to sensitize all employees to compliance in their daily work by means of sustainable communication.
 
The Executive Board

1. Compliance with Laws

Diehl complies with all laws and regulations applicable to its business, including the local laws and regulations of all countries outside Germany in which operations are managed or services are provided.

2. Prohibition of bribery / corruption

2.1 Anti-Corruption Laws

Diehl complies with the anti-corruption laws, directives and regulations that govern operations in the countries in which Diehl does business, regardless of any local customs. This also includes compliance with anti-corruption laws with extraterritorial application.

Diehl forbids every kind of bribery and corruption. No employee may offer, provide or accept bribes. Bribery is a criminal offense. This includes bribery in business transactions as well as bribery of any holder of office or granting of advantages and facilitation payments. In particular, any direct or indirect offer, promise, provision, or acceptance of inappropriate benefits, whether material or of any other kind, for the purpose of acquiring orders or procuring unlawful advantages is forbidden to all employees (corruption).

Diehl conducts reasonable due diligence to prevent and detect bribery and corruption in all business arrangements, including partnerships, the engagement of contractors and sub-contractors, joint ventures, offset agreements and the hiring of third-party intermediaries such as sales agents or consultants.

2.2 Illegal Payments

Diehl does not offer any illegal payments to, or agrees to receive any illegal payments from, any customer, supplier, their agents, representatives or others. Diehl prohibits its employees from receiving, paying and/or promising sums of money or anything of value, directly or indirectly, intended to exert undue influence or improper advantage. This prohibition applies even in locations where such activity may not violate local law.

Diehl does not offer, promise, make, accept or agrees to accept any improper payments of money or anything of value to government officials, political parties, candidates for public office or any other persons. This includes a prohibition on so-called "facilitation" or "grease" payments intended to expedite or secure performance of a routine governmental action, like obtaining a visa or customs clearance, unless there is a formal legal governmental fee schedule for such expediting services and the Government provides receipts. Personal safety payments are permitted where there is an imminent threat to health or safety.

2.3 Business relations

Relationships with other companies and between employees and their business partners – e.g. with suppliers and customers and with governmental offices and their employees, etc. – must be characterized by transparency, especially in the areas of purchasing and sales. This also applies to relationships with former employees and, in particular, to the family members of employees who directly or indirectly supply goods or services to the Group.

Employees who are involved in contractual negotiations with authorities must be familiar with the guidelines governing the process of submitting business offers in each respective country and may not violate them.

Diehl competes for orders by fair and legal means and carries out contractual negotiations in compliance with all legal provisions.

2.4 Fraud and deception

Diehl does not seek to gain an advantage of any kind by acting fraudulently, deceiving people, making false claims or allowing anyone else representing Diehl to do so. This includes defrauding or stealing and any kind of misappropriation of property or information.

2.5 Competition and antitrust

Diehl does not enter into any formal or informal anti-competitive agreements that fix prices, manipulate supply, limit supply or allocate/control markets. Diehl does not exchange current, recent or future pricing information with competitors. Diehl does not participate in a cartel or any activity that would unlawfully restrain or affect competition.

2.6 Gifts / business courtesies

Diehl competes on the merits of its products and services. Diehl does not use the exchange of business courtesies to gain an unfair competitive advantage. In any business relationship, Diehl ensures that the offering or receipt of any gift or business courtesy is permitted by applicable laws and regulations and that such exchanges do not violate the rules and standards of the recipient's organization and are consistent with reasonable marketplace customs and practices. No cash gifts or cash equivalents will be offered or accepted.

Gifts and other benefits may be accepted or granted only after approval by the respective company superior and / or the Corporate Compliance Officer (COO) and only under the condition that the gifts or benefits do not contravene laws or guidelines, are within proper limits, and are not intended to influence decisions in a dishonest manner. The question of whether gifts or invitations are appropriate is to be decided according to normal business practices and with due consideration, if necessary, for the special customs of each individual country. Every appearance of dishonesty and incorrect behavior is to be avoided.

2.7 Conflict of interest

Diehl avoids all conflicts of interest or situations giving the appearance of a potential conflict of interest. Diehl will provide immediate notification to all affected parties in the event that an actual or potential conflict of interest arises. This includes a conflict between the interests of Diehl and / or its business partners and personal interests or those of close relatives, friends or associates.

3. Global compliance with import and export trade laws

3.1 Import

Diehl ensures that its business practices are in accordance with all applicable laws, directives and regulations governing the import of parts, components, technical data and services.

3.2 Export und Sanctions

Diehl ensures that its business practices are in accordance with all applicable laws, directives and regulations, including economic sanctions and embargoes, governing the export and transfer of parts, components and technical data and services. Diehl provides truthful and accurate information and obtains export licenses and/or consents where necessary.

3.3 Responsible sourcing of minerals

Diehl complies with applicable laws and regulations regarding the direct and indirect sourcing of critical material and conflict minerals (i.e., when integrated in purchased products). Those materials include "conflict minerals" (tin, tungsten, tantalum, and gold), rare earth elements, as well as other minerals or metals (e.g., bauxite, cobalt, titanium, lithium). Diehl has established a policy and a management system to reasonably assure that the "conflict minerals" as well as critical material, which may be contained in products delivered by Diehl, are sourced responsibly (i.e., with limited environmental impact and not detrimental to Human Rights).

Diehl supports efforts to eradicate the use of any conflict minerals, which directly or indirectly finance or benefit armed groups that are perpetrators of serious human rights abuses. Diehl conducts due diligence and provides with supporting data on its sources and supply chain of custody for these minerals when requested, and identifies any potential doubt on the origin and/or on the production means.

In the event that the material “chain of custody” supplied is "indeterminable" or otherwise unknown, Diehl either attains the appropriate certifications, or phases out that source of mineral.

3.4 Counterfeit parts

Diehl develops, implements, and maintains effective methods and processes appropriate to its products to minimize the risk of counterfeit parts and materials being delivered. Effective processes are in place to detect, report and quarantine counterfeit parts and materials and to prevent such parts from re-entering the supply chain. If counterfeit parts and/or materials are detected or suspected, Diehl provides immediate notification to the recipient of such counterfeit parts and/or minerals.

3.5 Product Safety and Quality

Diehl complies with all laws and regulations on product safety and quality whilst delivering products and/or services to agreed product safety and quality standards.

Diehl has in place quality assurance processes to identify any defects and implement corrective actions.

3.6 Money Laundering Prevention

Diehl complies with the legal regulations on money laundering prevention.

4. Maintain Accurate Records

Diehl has in place appropriate controls to accurately and securely create, store and maintain business records, and does not alter any record entry to conceal or misrepresent the underlying transaction. All records, regardless of format, made or received as evidence of a business transaction fully and accurately represent the transaction or event being documented. Records are retained based on the applicable retention requirements.

5. Information Protection

5.1 Protecting Sensitive, Confidential and Proprietary Information

Diehl ensures that all sensitive, confidential and proprietary information is appropriately protected.

Diehl complies with applicable data privacy laws on the collection, processing and transfer of personal data and information.

Diehl does not use information for any purpose (e.g. advertisement, publicity, and the like) other than the business purpose for which it was provided, unless there is prior authorization from the owner of the information.

Diehl protects the sensitive, confidential and proprietary information of others, including personal data/information, from unauthorized access, destruction, use, modification and disclosure, through appropriate physical and electronic security procedures, including mitigating emerging risk to information systems by implementing appropriate IT cyber security programs.

Diehl reports any suspected or actual breach or security incident as soon it is aware to the entity they do business with, if the data breach / security incident affects the business relationship.

5.2 Protection of Intellectual Property

One of Diehl’s most significant assets is its intellectual property. This includes patents, business secrets, trademark rights and copyrights. It is Diehl’s Group policy to exercise all rights to economically significant intellectual property, and to use, maintain, protect and defend them in a responsible manner.

Diehl complies with all the applicable laws governing intellectual property rights assertions, including protection against disclosure. Moreover, Diehl respects the intellectual property of other natural persons and legal entities and uses the relevant information, computer programs or processes only in accordance with the respective license agreements or within the framework of the legal provisions.

5.3 Insider Trading

Diehl and its personnel do not use any material or non-publicly disclosed information obtained in the course of their business relationship as the basis for trading or for enabling others to trade in the stock or securities of any company.

6. Payment of Taxes

Diehl ensures it complies with all applicable tax laws and regulations in the countries where it operates and is open and transparent with the tax authorities. Under no circumstances, Diehl engages in deliberate illegal tax evasion or facilitates such evasion on behalf of others.

As such, Diehl puts in place effective controls to minimize the risk of tax evasion or its facilitation, and provides appropriate training, support and whistleblowing procedures to ensure its employees understand and implement them effectively and can report any concerns.

7. Timely Payment of Suppliers

Diehl is fair and reasonable in its payment practices and pays undisputed and valid invoices on time in accordance with agreed contractual payment terms.

8. Management of Risk

Diehl actively manages risk in accordance with applicable legal regulations and does not pass down risk inappropriately to subcontractors or third parties. Diehl shares information on risk to ensure risk can be mitigated.

9. Human Rights

Based on the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the four fundamental principles of the ILO core labor standards, Diehl conducts its business and operations in a way the respects human rights by treating its own workers, and people working for its suppliers, with dignity and promoting fair employment practices. This includes providing fair and competitive wages, prohibiting harassment, bullying and discrimination, prohibiting use of child, forced, bonded or indentured labor and not engaging in trafficking of persons for any purpose.

Diehl identifies risks and actual adverse human rights impacts related to its activities and business relationships and informs the responsible persons and the management about this as part of internal risk management. Diehl takes appropriate steps to identify, prevent, reduce risk and ensure its operations do not contribute to human rights abuses and to remedy any adverse impacts directly caused, or contributed to, by its activities or business relationships.

9.1 Child Labor

Diehl ensures that illegal child labor within the meaning of Nos. 138 and 182 of the International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention is not used in the performance of work. The term “child” refers to any person under the minimum legal age for employment where the work is performed, and/or the minimum working age defined by the ILO, whichever is higher.

All workers under the age of 18 are protected from performing work that is likely to be hazardous or that may be harmful to their health, physical, mental, social, spiritual, or moral development.

9.2 Modern Slavery including Human Trafficking, Forced, Bonded or Indentured Labor

Diehl prevents any involvement in all forms of modern slavery, including human trafficking, forced, bonded or indentured labor. All work is involuntary on the part of the employee.

Diehl provides all employees with a written contract in a language they understand clearly indicating their rights and responsibilities with regard to wages, working hours, benefits and other working and employment conditions. Diehl does not retain any form of employee identification (passports or work permits), nor destroys or denies access to such documentation, as a condition of employment unless required by applicable law.

Diehl does not charge employees fees, recruitment costs or deposits, directly or indirectly, as a precondition of work.

Diehl respects the right of workers to terminate their employment after reasonable notice and to receive all owed salary. Diehl respects the right of workers to leave the workplace after their shift (see also Wage, Benefits and Working Hours).

9.3 Diversity and Inclusion

Diehl fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment where employees are treated with respect and fairness.

Diehl provides equal employment opportunity to employees and applicants for employment without discrimination and complies with all non-discrimination laws and regulations.

Diehl ensures employment, including hiring, payment, benefits, advancement, termination and retirement, based on ability and not any personal characteristics.

9.4 Harassment and Bullying

Diehl ensures that its employees are afforded and employment environment that is free from physical, psychological, sexual, and verbal harassment, intimidation or other abusive conduct.

9.5 Wage, Benefits and Working Hours

Diehl pays workers at least the minimum compensation required by local law and provides all legally mandated benefits. In addition to payment for regular hours of work, workers are paid for overtime at such premium rate as is legally required or, in those countries where such laws do not exist, at least equal to their regular hourly payment rate. Diehl does not permit deduction from wages as a disciplinary measure nor permits any other deductions, which are not provided by national law.

Diehl provides employees with regulated hours of work, daily and weekly rest periods and annual leave.

9.6 Health and Safety

Diehl respects the occupational health and safety obligations applicable and establishes an appropriate safety management system including policies aimed at protecting the health, safety and welfare of employees, contractors, visitors and others who may be affected by its activities by striving to eliminate fatalities, work-related injuries, health impairment and limiting exposure to safety hazards.

Diehl takes reasonable steps to provide a hygienic working environment and ensures that employee’s performance and safety is not impaired by alcohol, controlled substances, legal and illegal drugs.

9.7 Social dialogue and freedom of association

Diehl respects the rights of workers to associate freely and communicate openly with management regarding working conditions without fear of harassment, intimidation, penalty, interference or reprisal.

Diehl recognizes and respects any rights of workers to exercise lawful rights of free association, including joining or not joining any association of their choosing within the appropriate national legal framework.

Diehl recognizes that unions may operate freely and in accordance with the law of the employee's location; this includes the right to strike and the right to collective bargaining.

9.8 Disciplinary and Grievance Mechanism

Diehl has an employee disciplinary process in place to address concerns regarding employee work, conduct or absence.

Diehl has a grievance mechanism for employees to raise a workplace problem or concern or to appeal a disciplinary decision.

The above procedures comply with the relevant legal requirements.

10. Property

Diehl recognizes the property of third parties and rejects unlawful evictions and the unlawful deprivation of land, forests and waters associated with the acquisition, development or other use of land, forests and waters, the use of which secures a person's basis of existence.

11. Environment

Diehl values a sustainable and responsible approach to the environment as well as natural resources. Therefore, in the course of its business activities, Diehl strives to continuously improve the environmental performance of its locations, products and services and actively manages environmental risks across its operations, products and supply chain.

Diehl has established an appropriate environment management system at its locations, including directives and procedures aimed at ensuring compliance with laws, regulations and other binding obligations in order to improve environmental performance and protect the environment from harmful effects. In doing so, Diehl aims at a continuous reduction of consumption of energy, water and natural resources and ensures a legally compliant handling of waste, waste water and hazardous substances. Diehl minimizes hazardous waste, ships goods in appropriate repackaging and promotes reusable / recycled packaging materials, and responsibly manages its air emissions.

Furthermore, Diehl incorporates environmental aspects into its own product development and service. Diehl is committed to environmentally compatible, advanced and efficient technologies and implements them over the entire life cycle of its products.

12. Sustainability Reporting

Diehl prepares and publishes sustainability reports in accordance with the applicable legal requirements.

13. Ethics Program

13.1 Directives and Code of Conduct

Diehl implements and adheres to this Code of Conduct and operates an effective compliance program and requires its employees to make ethical, value-based decisions in doing business.

Superiors and managers have a special role model function and ensure that their employees are familiar with the content of this Code of Conduct. The managers implement preventive measures in their area in order to prevent violations. All employees at all hierarchical levels, as well as the executive bodies, are themselves responsible for compliance with this Code of Conduct. Notwithstanding any further civil and/or criminal consequences, violations can be punished with disciplinary measures.

13.2 Compliance training courses

In all countries in which the Diehl Group is active, compliance training courses (on-site events and e-learning) on the requirements of this Code of Conduct are held regularly for employees at all hierarchical levels.

13.3 Help and advice

In order to anchor compliance in the Diehl Group and to enforce this Code of Conduct, the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board have established a Compliance Organization. The Corporate Compliance Officer (CCO) heads the Group' s Compliance Organization. He can be consulted on all relevant matters.

In order to regularly review our business processes with regard to compliance with this Code of Conduct, and to identify compliance problem areas and to investigate identified violations, a Compliance Committee has been set up, to which members of the Executive Board also belong. Moreover, the CCO regularly reports to the Executive Board.

The Compliance Organization at Diehl is supplemented by a neutral external ombudsman (lawyer) who is obliged to maintain strict confidentiality. Diehl employees and third parties can turn to the ombudsman as a neutral body in confidence if they have observed improper business practices in companies of the Diehl Group. The contact details of the ombudsman are published on the Internet (www.diehl.com / Group / Company / Compliance).

In addition, Diehl offers its employees and third parties access to other appropriate reporting channels, including the option to report anonymously (www.diehl.com / Group / Company / Compliance).

Diehl encourages its employees to report suspicious cases in order to prevent damage to the company. The identity of employees who report a possible violation will be treated confidentially. Similarly, no employee may be sanctioned or otherwise disadvantaged as a result of having made such a report. Diehl takes measures to prevent, detect and correct acts of retaliation.

13.4 Forwarding to the supply chain

Diehl binds its suppliers to comply with the aforementioned principles by means of a Supplier Code of Conduct.

Prohibition of Corruption

The following specifications shall apply in accordance with the provisions on the prohibition of bribery and corruption embodied in the “Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group”.
Diehl protects and supports all employees who comply with the prohibition of corruption that is embodied in the “Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group” and stipulated in guidelines as well as work instructions and who accordingly refuse to act unlawfully – even if, as a result, a deal does not materialize or the company suffers any other disadvantage.

(Question 3.5) –> The references refer to the questions of the Defence Companies Anti-Corruption Index (DCI) 2020.    

Internal control

The identification and assessment of compliance risks - especially with regard to bribery and corruption risks - form the basis for the establishment of the corresponding compliance organization at Diehl. To identify and monitor compliance risks in the area of anticorruption/bribery, the CCO regularly conducts a compliance risk analysis for the Diehl Group.

(Question 2.1, 2.2)

Furthermore, the Compliance Management System (CMS) is reviewed and evaluated every three years by an external law firm with the aim of continuously improving the CMS. Among other things, this ensures that anti-corruption and bribery measures are adapted to Diehl's specific risks. The results and measures are reported to the Compliance Committee and the Executive Board.

(Question 1.3)
 

Incentive system

Like all other business activities, Diehl's incentive system is based on the “Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group”. Diehl employees are obliged not only generally but also contractually to meet the Code of Conduct so that the prohibition of bribery and corruption – also in connection with incentive systems – is firmly laid down in this way as well. Furthermore, the Code of Conduct provisions underline the importance of integrity, fairness and law-abidance so that ethical behavior is also stipulated as an indispensable prerequisite for all Diehl employees in the context of incentive systems.
Thus, incentive systems clearly focus on the way objectives are to be achieved. In accordance with a guideline, the Executive Board has the possibility to reduce or cancel bonuses in case Compliance regulations have been violated. Accordingly, attention is paid in all areas with inherent risks, such as sales, that any financial bonuses paid are always proportionate to the respective employee's salary.

(Question 3.4)

Secure handling of invitations and gifts

Flyer: “How to handle invitations and gifts correctly”

(Question 5.3.1)

Compliance training and communication

Compliance training (attendance-based training and e-learning) is regularly conducted for employees on all hierarchical levels in all countries in which the Diehl Group is operating. If required, attendance-based training is accompanied by local lawyers or interpreters. The e-learning program is available in various corporate languages.
Compliance training is concerned with explaining the “Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group” with emphasis on corruption prevention/competition law. The employees concerned are required to repeat the Compliance training every 3 years, where they are also informed about reporting channels, including the ombudsman Dr. Rainer Buchert (whistleblowing reporting).
Especially tailored training courses are provided for certain positions with special inherent risks (e.g. sales and purchasing), for medium-level management as well as the Executive Board – for positions with special inherent risks once a year. These training courses with anti-corruption emphasis take place, for instance, during regularly held sales and purchasing meetings as well as in the context of executive staff and Executive Board meetings.
Training courses provided in the context of management events also address Compliance as a managerial task because executives are the decisive link between top management, Compliance organization and day-to-day business. Executives are trained as multipliers to enhance their employees' awareness of corruption-critical situations in daily business.

(Questions 3.1 and 3.2)

Diehl's Corporate Compliance training and communication program is very extensive, also with respect to corruption prohibition. The training documents contain numerous examples, e.g. giving and accepting gifts and other benefits, and refer to the special requirements in the international environment. Compliance processes are explained and communicated to the employees by means of graphics / charts.
The effectiveness of Compliance training is checked, among other things, by means of the participants' feedback. Sensitized by the training content, it is usual practice that, in case of doubt, employees contact Corporate Compliance to inquire about how to correctly deal with invitations and gifts or how to exactly implement the Compliance guidelines. Moreover, Corporate Compliance systematically obtains feedback about training in personal conversations. This feedback is used to continuously improve training and tailor it exactly to the participants' requirements. In addition, the participants and training contents are documented – so that Corporate Compliance can take appropriate measures, if necessary, to further improve the participation quotas.
Besides numerous attendance-based training courses and the e-learning program, there are also publications in company journals, on the Internet and intranet. Here, too, Corporate Compliance asks for feedback in personal conversations to improve the effectiveness of the communication measures.
Moreover, a Compliance App is currently being implemented, making the anti-corruption guidelines and other documents at any time accessible to employees on their mobile end devices. Thus, employees will anywhere be able to obtain flexible support in the App.
Compliance communication on different channels (attendance-based events, printed and digital media, etc.) provides variety for the users, increases Compliance awareness and the effectiveness of the Compliance measures taken.

(Question 3.3)   

Protection of whistleblowers

Diehl's Compliance organization is complemented by a neutral, external ombudsman (lawyer) who is obliged to maintain strict confidentiality. The ombudsman's contact details are available on the Internet (www.diehl.com / Group / Company / Compliance). The ombudsman acts as neutral, confidential point of contact for Diehl employees and third parties, such as suppliers, joint venture partners, etc., if they have observed improper business practices in companies of the Diehl group. Thus, Diehl employees and other whistleblowers can report suspected violations of Compliance standards without being required to reveal their identity as whistleblowers because any conversation with the ombudsman is subject to the lawyer's duty of confidentiality. This is why both employees and third parties should make use of the opportunity to exchange information with the ombudsman in case of doubt. He can be reached on all usual communication channels – by phone, e-mail, letter mail or fax. Information from abroad is mostly received by e-mail. Information provided in languages other than German or English is translated and answered at short notice. The contact details of the Corporate Compliance Officer (CCO) are also available on the Internet (www.diehl.com / Group / Company / Compliance). The CCO may also be consulted regarding all Compliance-related issues.
No Diehl employee worldwide and no other whistleblower, whether he/she is an employee of a joint venture or of a supplier etc., will be subject to sanctions or put at a disadvantage in any other way due to the fact that he/she has provided any such information. Diehl employees who violate that principle will be subjected to sanctions.
The fact that whistleblowers have used the ombudsman's reporting channel shows that Diehl employees rely on these assurances.

(Questions 3.6 and 3.7)   

Investigation results

Reports on bribery and corruption were received in the past financial year, also through the whistleblowing channel, i.e. our ombudsman Dr. Rainer Buchert. In all cases, investigations were initiated based on the information obtained. The investigation results also led to disciplinary measures, such as dismissals (as of September 2019)

(Question 2.6)

If there are any findings about bribery and corruption incidents within the company, e.g. as a result of internal investigations, they are reported to the Executive Board. It is the responsibility of the Corporate Compliance Officer to check whether criminal offenses must be disclosed to the competent authorities and to ensure such disclosure, when appropriate.

(Question 2.5)


Lobbying

Through its office in Berlin, Diehl is in contact with political and ministerial decision-makers, with partner companies and associations represented there as well as with embassy representatives.

In the past 12 months, Diehl had no politicians under contract.

(Question 4.4)

Through its office in Brussels, Diehl is in contact with decision-makers from the European Community, the European Commission, the European Defence Community and NATO, as well as with partner companies and associations represented there.
As published in the EU Transparency Register, Diehl keeps track of the following and other main EU initiatives, policies and legislative files:
Transposition/monitoring of the Defence Package, Preparatory Action on CSDP-related research, SESAR, European Fund for Strategic Investment, regional policy / Structural Funds, Energy Efficiency Directive, Energy Union, ETS reform, Smart Grids/Smart Metering, resource efficiency, Horizon 2020, FP9
Relevant policy implementation, public relations and communication activities such as projects, events and publications:
Bi-annual reception concerning current political topics (last time in 2015).

List of meetings with the European Commission

Participation in EU structures and platforms
Intergroups (European Parliament): Sky and Space Intergroup
Two full-time equivalent employees are involved in the activities published in the EU Transparency Register.
Annual costs related to activities covered by the Register are estimated at 200,000 to 300,000 euros for financial year 2017. During that financial year, Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG did not receive any funding from EU institutions.
Further (financial) information in the interest of transparency:
Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG is a member of several national associations that are also represented in Brussels, either by themselves or through their European associations (e.g. BDI, BDLI, BDSV, Wirtschaftsvereinigung Metalle). The membership fees for these have not been included in the cost calculation of the Diehl office in Brussels to avoid double counting.
By its registration in the EU Transparency Register, Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG has signed the Transparency Register's code of conduct.

Diehl Defence is a member of the following associations:

  • BDI – Bundesverband der Deutschen Industrie (Federation of German Industries)
  • BDLI – Bundesverband der deutschen Luft- und Raumfahrtindustrie (German Aerospace Industries Association)
  • BDSV – Bundesverband der deutschen Sicherheits- und Verteidigungsindustrie e.V. (Federation of German Security and Defence Industries)  
  • DGLR – Deutsche Gesellschaft für Luft- und Raumfahrt (Germany Society for Aeronautics and Astronautics)
  • DWT – Deutsche Gesellschaft für Wehrtechnik (German Association for Defence Technology)
  • FKH – Förderkreis Deutsches Heer e.V. (Association of the German Army)
  • LR BW – Luft- und Raumfahrt Baden-Württemberg e.V. (Forum Aerospace Baden-Wuerttemberg e.V.)
(Questions 5.2.2 and 5.2.3)

Sales representatives and agents

Based on the Diehl Compliance guidelines, due diligence reviews are conducted for defined business partners, such as sales representatives and agents. Accordingly, a corporate guideline on conclusion of consultancy and representative agreements exists.
The integrity of consultants and representatives is indispensable for such a cooperation because Diehl can also be held responsible for their actions. The above-mentioned Compliance guideline is implemented to ensure that the consultants and representatives engaged meet the same high standards of integrity as Diehl in their business activities and transactions. This guideline provides instructions for the engagement and management of representatives and consultants and is to ensure that all representatives and consultants comply with statutory provisions, further applicable regulations and procedures as well as anti-corruption legislation.

The Diehl Anti-Corruption and Bribery Guidelines apply to commercial agents and intermediaries. Compliance is audited regularly. In the Defence Group, an audit takes place at least once a year. In case of non-compliance, contracts are terminated without notice.

Thus, a regular (i.e., every two years or in the case of major changes of business relations) Compliance due diligence review of all current and potential consultants and representatives is obligatory to prevent illegal business practices, such as fraud, bribery or corruption. The due diligence review is performed, using software and other tools, on the basis of a risk assessment carried out before. It covers all information relevant for corruption prevention, especially the qualifications of the business partner, the relations with Diehl and Diehl employees, special incidents in the past (e.g. insolvency, corruption, punishable offenses, antitrust proceedings etc.), modes of settlement as well as determination and verification of the beneficial owner.

The beneficial owner of sales representatives / agents is identified and verified prior to an engagement as well as every two years and in the case of significant changes of the business relations. Like the entire due diligence review, the beneficial owner is determined and verified on the basis of a risk assessment undertaken before, which means all information provided by the representative / agent is verified, e.g. by excerpts from the commercial register. Moreover, a verification is carried out on the basis of independent sources (e.g. external service providers) in the case of high-risk representatives / agents. If the beneficial owner cannot be determined and verified, Diehl will not enter a business relationship with the representative / agent, or Diehl will terminate an existing relationship.

With regard to the entire Compliance due diligence review, all highest-risk representatives and agents are subjected to an extended Due Diligence Review, which means that an extension of the review to include an on-site review, a review carried out by external service providers or constant monitoring may be necessary, depending on the risk assessment carried out.

If risks have been identified in the course of the due diligence review, that cannot be reduced, Diehl will not enter a business relationship with such partners or terminates the business relationship. Thus, the conclusion or extension of an agreement always depends on the results of the Compliance due diligence review carried out before.

This guideline applies to all national and foreign companies of the Diehl Group with respect to their relations with consultants and representatives and provides, inter alia, that

  • the remuneration level must correspond to the scope of services provided;
  • the remuneration must correspond to the commission scale laid down;
  • the remuneration is in any case subject to the CCO's approval or the approval of an authorized representative appointed by the CCO;
  • the remuneration is to be transferred to a first-class bank account in the country where the services are provided or to a bank account in Germany;
  • all services and activities performed by the representative / consultant have to be documented.

In this way it is ensured that the remuneration structure complies with the prohibition of bribery and corruption embodied in the “Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group”. In any case, the CCO or the authorized representative appointed by him restricts the remuneration so that it is not inappropriately high. Moreover, the remuneration is to be paid only in part payments, based on clearly defined milestones within the agreement.
As a general rule, all consultancy and representative agreements must be made in writing on the basis of the Compliance standard agreements. Among other provisions, these standard agreements contain specific declarations and assurances regarding compliance with all applicable anti-corruption laws and provisions as well as regulations regarding termination without notice for non-compliance.
The term of the agreement shall not exceed two years without prior approval of the CCO or an authorized representative appointed by the CCO. All representative and consultancy agreements shall be administered, executed, renewed and terminated in accordance with this guideline and are available to the CCO.
In addition, all representative and consultancy agreements are subjected to internal audits (Compliance audits) at regular intervals.

(Questions 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 7.1.3, 7.1.4, 7.1.5)

Offset

Special Offset Managers are responsible for the coordination of all offset activities at Diehl. They prepare offset proposals, and check and negotiate offset agreements. Moreover, they cooperate with offset authorities.
As offset agreements may involve risks of corruption, all employees in this area are, of course, trained with regard to corruption prevention and bribery prohibition.

(Question 8.1)

High-risk markets

Diehl identifies countries with high corruption risks, based on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) by Transparency International and further assessment criteria. If Diehl intends to do business in those countries, such activities are subject to an intensive Compliance review.
If the review result shows that corruption risks cannot be reduced satisfactorily by taking Compliance measures, Diehl will not transact that business. Appropriate measures may, for instance, be on-site visits by the CCO in the course of business partner screening, reviews carried out by external service providers or country-specific trainings at the Diehl locations.

(Question 9.1)

 

Human Rights

Diehl carries out its business activities in agreement with the Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group. All employees on all hierarchical levels, as well as the executive bodies, are to comply with it without exception.
As a responsible, globally active company, we are committed to respecting internationally recognized human rights and to preventing human rights violations and environmental violations as far as we can, in accordance with the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LKSG).
Unfair or even illegal practices are not compatible with our Code of Conduct.
Diehl employees and third parties may contact the ombudsman as a neutral body in confidence if they have observed improper business practices within companies of the Diehl Group or at suppliers.
Anyone can also report compliance violations via the following external online whistleblower tool: https://diehl.integrityline.com/frontpage
This system is open to employees, customers, suppliers and other third parties.
Reports can also be submitted by telephone on +49 30 99 25 71 46. To do so, use the Company Access PIN 4367 upon request.

China: Please note that due to legal requirements, only the following reporting option is to be used for reports that you submit from China: diehl@whistleblowing.sh.cn 
The reports will be processed by Diehl experts specifically authorised for this purpose.

Declaration of Principles on the Human Rights Strategy of the Diehl Group

  • 1. Preamble / Preliminary Remark

    The internationally operating Diehl Group can look back on more than 120 years of corporate history and tradition. As a technology group with its five Corporate Divisions Aviation, Defence, Metall, Controls and Metering, Diehl is positioned as a manufacturer, supplier and customer in the aerospace, defense, automotive, electrical engineering, gas and water supply industries.

    Durability and sustainability are essential components of Diehl's strategic orientation. This includes a clear commitment to internationally recognized human rights, both in our own Corporate Group as well as among our suppliers and business partners.

    In addition to our commitment to respect human rights and environmental protection, Diehl pursues the Human Rights Strategy outlined in this Declaration of Principles to comply with due diligence obligations within our own business operations and supply chains. The entire human rights organization and the individual persons responsible are provided with the necessary competencies by the Executive Board and receive support as required.

    The Human Rights Strategy, like all measures, is reviewed once a year to ensure its topicality and effectiveness. Should human rights and environmental risks change due to any alterations among business partners, the Executive Board reserves the right to adjust the Declaration of Principles on Human Rights Strategy, the procurement strategy and the business processes.

    The Executive Board

  • 2. Commitment to Human Rights and Environmental Obligations

    It goes without saying that Diehl treats its employees, business partners and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), in particular employee representatives, trade unions and other interest groups (e.g. political parties, nature conservation and environmental protection associations) with respect.

    Diehl and its corporate bodies commit themselves worldwide to respecting and complying with human rights and environmental protection regulations. In addition to the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG), the following points constitute the relevant guidelines:

    • the International Bill of Human Rights of the United Nations,
    • the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights,
    • the Declaration of the International Labor Law Organization (ILO),
    • the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises,
    • the EU Conflict Minerals Regulation (Mineral Resources Due Diligence Act),
    • the Timber and Timber Products Regulation (Timber Trade Safeguards Act),
    • the Minamata Agreement,
    • the Stockholm Convention,
    • the POPs Convention,
    • the Basel Convention

    Diehl vehemently rejects any violation of one of the elementary human and basic rights listed in Section 2, Paragraph 2, Nos. 1 to 12 of the LkSG, in particular the following:

    • any form of child labor, forced labor, slavery, servitude
    • disregard of occupational health and safety,
    • disregard of the freedom of association,
    • any form of unequal treatment and discrimination against minorities (on the basis of national or ethnic origin, social origin, disability, sexual orientation, age, gender, political opinion, religion or belief),
    • withholding fair wages from employees
    • causing harmful environmental changes,
    • unlawful evictions or unlawful deprivation of land, and
    • the use of questionable private or public security companies.

    In its own business units, Diehl complies with the environmental regulations pursuant to Section 2 (3) Nos. 1 to 8 LkSG regarding

    • the production, use and disposal of mercury, as well as
    • the proper recycling and waste disposal

    Conducting business in compliance with the laws and official regulations of the countries in which its employees work is self-evident for Diehl. In addition to the above-mentioned international agreements and laws, Diehl has issued

    • a Code of Conduct for employees (Code of Conduct) and
    • a Code of Conduct for suppliers (Supplier Code of Conduct)

    in the sense of self-commitment declarations.

    The Code of Conduct for employees is substantiated by Diehl Group Directives and internal instructions providing further legal guidance for the departments concerned (Human Resources, Procurement, Sales, Legal & Tax, Finance and Accounting, etc.).

    Accordingly, within an existing contractual and supply relationship, business partners shall be obliged to comply with the provisions of the Code of Conduct for Suppliers and to comply with the internationally applicable provisions and standards on top of Diehl's self-commitment.

  • 3. Human Rights Organization

    Diehl maintains a corporate-wide human rights organization. The Human Rights Committee constitutes the Human Rights Officer within the meaning of section 4 (3) sentence 1 LkSG. The Human Rights Committee is composed of representatives from various disciplines (in particular law, compliance, internal auditing and sustainability). The Executive Board obtains information on the work of the Human Rights Committee once a year, the Human Rights Committee reports at least once a year on relevant incidents and presents the report intended for publication to the Executive Board.

    Further functions under the Human Rights Committee are the so-called Human Rights Coordination and Compliance Representatives in the affiliates. Human Rights Coordination deals with all legal issues relating to the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act and supports the departments concerned. The compliance representatives within the individual companies receive reports of violations of human rights or environmental regulations, develop concepts with suppliers to eliminate such violations, and monitor their implementation.

    All departments involved in the procurement process, in particular General Procurement, Sales and Quality Management, are entrusted with tasks relating to the implementation of the human rights strategy vis-à-vis business partners. In the procurement departments, annual risk analyses are carried out, criteria for the supplier selection process are defined, codes of conduct are negotiated with suppliers and remedial measures are defined with the supplier in the event of violations.  

  • 4. Risk Analysis

    Diehl implements a human rights strategy with the content that its own business units abroad are subjected to a risk analysis comparable to that of direct suppliers. The human rights strategy includes direct and indirect measures in its own business units and with business partners to achieve direct and/or indirect improvements in human rights and environmental protection.

    Diehl takes the approach of identifying high-risk suppliers in advance. General Procurement uses a software program that helps perform an annual human rights and environmental assessment of all suppliers worldwide. Criteria are the country in which a supplier has its headquarters or location and the industry to which it belongs. After the assessment has been carried out, a country-specific and/or industry-specific risk can be derived by assigning score points. Suppliers with a high risk potential can influence their score by submitting a self-disclosure and improve the score by taking and implementing measures. The score determined after the risk analysis does not initially result in the exclusion from tenders within the procurement process, but is taken into account when deciding on the award of the contract.

    The obligation to carry out an annual review of the effectiveness of the individual measures and the information to be gathered for this purpose simultaneously serve to implement risk-based monitoring measures regarding compliance with the human rights strategy.  

  • 5. Priority Human Rights and Environment-related Risks

    In the course of the initial risk analysis, no specific human rights or environmental risks were identified, neither in the company's own business nor among its business partners, apart from general risks based on country or industry affiliation. Diehl prioritizes compliance with the following listed human rights and expects compliance, in particular with the labor law provisions applicable in each country.

    5.1. Prohibition of child labor, forced labor, slavery, servitude

    In particular, children and adolescents must be protected from the worst forms of child labor, exploitation and working conditions that are hazardous to health. The compliance with the minimum age applicable in a country and the Convention on the Minimum Age for Admission to Employment is ensured in Diehl's own business unit. The compliance with the child and adolescent labor protection applicable in a country is demanded from each supplier.

    Forced labor, slavery or servitude means - in addition to the exercise of direct coercion - the withholding of ID cards and passports, accommodation in mass housing and the retention of remuneration in order to pay off a personal debt, as well as the exploitation of an economic and financial hardship of a person. The payment of adequate and fair remuneration can counteract any form of forced labor, slavery or servitude. 

    5.2 Adequate remuneration and occupational safety and health protection

    In its own business unit, Diehl ensures adequate remuneration, corresponding at least to the average wage in a country in relation to the work performed. Fair working conditions, adequate pay, observance of working hours and rest breaks, granting of vacation or continued payment in case of illness, compliance with recognized occupational safety standards and active health management are among the basic principles of employee protection.

    5.3 Equal Treatment

    The principle of equality as a recognized human right is a very valuable commodity and the basis for the exercise of all freedom rights, in particular the general freedom of action, freedom of opinion, freedom of association and freedom of occupation. Diehl rejects any kind of discrimination or unequal treatment based on national or ethnic origin, social origin, disability, sexual orientation, age, gender, political opinion, religion or ideology. Everyone should have equal access to education and to the labor market through equal treatment, enabling them to have a chance to secure their livelihood.

    5.4 Respect for Natural Resources

    Land, pastures, farmland, forests, clean waters and pollution-free air are essential natural resources and secure the livelihoods of people engaged in livestock breeding, agriculture, forestry or fishing. Diehl rejects the illegal deprivation of possession and ownership of land, forests or water for construction, mining of raw materials or other uses by means of forced evictions.

    5.5 Environmental Obligations

    Alongside the various international agreements and conventions, the minimum requirement is to comply with the environmental protection laws and standards in force in each country to prevent harmful soil, water and air pollution, and to avoid noise emissions and excessive water consumption.

  • 6. Preventive Measures in our own Business Unit

    As a preventive measure in its own business unit, Diehl communicates the Declaration of Principles on Human Rights Strategy both internally and on the website www.diehl.com.

    Risk analysis is an essential part of the procurement strategy and purchasing practices. For this purpose, Group Guidelines have been issued for the incorporation of supplier codes of conduct with regard to the business relationship, together with guidelines for the awarding of contracts, in due consideration of the risk analyses. Identified risks relating to human rights and the environment are adequately taken into account in the procurement and awarding process.

    Another preventive measure consists of compliance trainings in the company's own business units, in particular in General Procurement, Human Resources and Social Affairs, as well as for the individual Compliance Representatives.

  • 7. Preventive Measures vis-à-vis Direct Suppliers

    The importance of risk analysis with the help of the software is worth emphasizing, especially the ability of a supplier to improve the determined risk assessment score by self-reporting and to continue participating in the procurement process.

    When identifying risks, Diehl has set itself the goal of incorporating the Diehl Supplier Code of Conduct or a comparable document into the business relationship with direct suppliers as a preventive measure.

    Given the large number of suppliers, a letter in the supplier's native language or at least in English is generally preferred in order to provide information on the content of the Supplier Code of Conduct. Where training and further education on the contractual obligations arising from the Supplier Code of Conduct are required, these shall be carried out at the supplier's premises.

    Suppliers are requested to submit certificates or audits during the tendering procedures serving as control mechanisms, with contractual agreement on the right to have a certification or audit carried out by Diehl or an independent service provider.

  • 8. Remedial Measures within the meaning of § 7 LkSG (Dealing with Violations).

    In its own business units, Diehl pursues a zero-tolerance approach. Violations of human rights or environmental protection regulations are eliminated immediately after they become known.

    If business partners are found to have committed violations of human rights or environmental regulations, the aim is to educate and train the business partner on human rights and environmental regulations. In parallel with the education and training of a business partner, action plans for the termination and/or elimination of human rights and environmental violations are to be defined together with the business partner and implemented within a specified period.

    Despite the principle of qualifying business partners as a matter of priority, Diehl reserves the right to terminate the business relationship with a business partner as a last resort and, at the same time, as a last consequence.

  • 9. To Make a Complaint

    Diehl maintains several complaint and whistleblower options. In principle, employees can report grievances and violations directly to their Superiors, the Human Resources Department, the Compliance Officer, the Data Protection Officer or the responsible employee representative. Business partners have the option of contacting the responsible contact persons in procurement.

    To protect complainants and whistleblowers, there are also various options for submitting complaints or tip-offs anonymously. On the website www.diehl.com, under the category Compliance#Human Rights, the Rules of Procedure are published in German and English.

    Under the categories Compliance/Human Rights or Compliance/Organization#Reporting Offices, users of the website are redirected to the Complaints and Whistleblowing Portal (https://diehl.integrityline.com/setup). Complaints or tip-offs on this portal can be made in the following languages: German, English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Polish and Hungarian. Employees and third parties have the option of submitting complaints or tip-offs anonymously. Due to data protection regulations under Chinese law, the Diehl Group maintains an independent whistleblower system (diehl@whistleblowing.sh.cn) for its own business unit and the resident suppliers in The People's Republic of China, with the involvement of an independent law firm that is not bound by instructions in its capacity as an ombudsman. The law firm is professionally obligated to maintain the anonymity of the complainant and whistleblower vis-à-vis the Diehl Group.

    Furthermore, there is the option of sending complaints or tips to an independent lawyer serving as an external ombudsman. The contact options are also published on the website under the categories Compliance/Human Rights or Compliance/Organization&Reporting Offices. The ombudsman is independent of the Diehl Group and not bound by instructions. In the case of reports, he is professionally obliged to protect the identity of the complainant and whistleblower.

  • 10. Involvement of Indirect Business Partners

    Should Diehl obtain substantiated knowledge of violations of human rights or environmental regulations on the part of an indirect business partner through the existing complaint options or through notifications from a direct business partner, such business partner shall be included in a software-based risk analysis. Considering Diehl's possibilities to exert influence on the indirect business partner, Diehl will take preventive and remedial measures against the indirect business partner in coordination with the direct business partner on a case-by-case basis. Diehl will preferably take industry-specific or cross-industry initiatives in this context.

  • 11. Meeting the Documentation and Reporting Requirements

    Procurement at each Diehl Corporation registers and documents the evaluations of the risk analyses as well as the agreed Supplier Codes of Conduct. Furthermore, when there are indications of violations of human rights or environmental regulations, the processes are digitally recorded and digitally stored. All documentation is stored for seven years.

    The Human Rights Committee and the Human Rights Coordination are responsible for preparing a uniform report for the entire Group as long as and insofar as a Diehl company is not or does not become a self-reporting company.

    This annual report, which is to be published on the website, is made available within four months of the end of a financial year on the website www.diehl.com under the category Compliance#Human Rights in German and English and is accessible for public examination for a period of seven years.

    In addition, Diehl will electronically submit the report(s), written in German, to the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control within four months after the end of a financial year.

  • 12. Regular Review

    The annual or ad hoc evaluation of the effectiveness of the various measures is carried out by the Human Rights Coordination. It will report the results to the Human Rights Committee and make recommendations for change to the Human Rights Committee.

Organization & Reporting Points

In order to implement Compliance within the Diehl Group and to enforce the “Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group”, the Executive Board and Supervisory Board have established a Compliance Organization. Diehl's Compliance Organization is headed by Dr. Sebastian Buss (Corporate Compliance Officer).

A Compliance Committee, also including members of the Executive Board, has been set up to regularly check the business processes for compliance with the “Code of Conduct of the Diehl-Group”, to identify Compliance issues and to investigate recognized violations. Moreover, the Corporate Compliance Officer (CCO) regularly reports to the Executive Board.

In addition, the Compliance organization includes a neutral, external ombudsman who is obliged to maintain strict confidentiality (Attorney Dr. Rainer Buchert). Diehl employees and third parties may contact him in confidence if they have observed improper business practices within companies of the Diehl Group or at suppliers.

Anyone can also report compliance violations via the following external online whistleblower tool: https://diehl.integrityline.com/frontpage
This system is open to employees, customers, suppliers and other third parties. Reports can also be submitted by telephone on +49 30 99 25 71 46. To do so, use the Company Access PIN 4367 upon request.

China: Please note that due to legal requirements, only the following reporting option is to be used for reports that you submit from China: diehl@whistleblowing.sh.cn 

The reports will be processed by Diehl experts specifically authorised for this purpose. These competent persons shall act impartially. They are independent and are not bound by instructions within the scope of responsibility for the complaints procedure. Furthermore, they are bound to secrecy. The Diehl Corporate Compliance Officer (CCO) or a person authorized by him is responsible for the complaints procedure.

With the above-mentioned reporting channels, whistleblowers have the opportunity to report violations in such a way that they can usually be investigated and remedied as quickly as possible in order to prevent damage. 

Therefore, as a whistleblower, you should prefer to report to one of the above-mentioned reporting points in cases where we can effectively take action against the violation within Diehl. 

Whistleblower protection

Anyone who makes a report in good faith must not be subjected to sanctions or otherwise disadvantaged due to the fact that he or she has made such a report. Diehl takes measures to prevent, detect and correct retaliation. 

External Reporting Point:

Whistleblowers can also use the external reporting procedures mentioned under the following link:

Federal Office of Justice (BfJ)