Human Rights

At Munich Re, our business model is based on responsible, sustainable, and forward-looking action over the long term. We regard the protection of human rights as a particular obligation, one that we strive to meet in line with internationally accepted human rights principles. It is part and parcel of our approach to corporate governance, which embeds economic, environmental, and social requirements into our definition of success. The Board of Management has confirmed this commitment by clearly stating the Munich Re Group’s declaration of principles on human rights. In addition, the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) – passed by the German government in summer 2022 – prompted us to optimise our existing processes and corporate duties of care with respect to human rights and to introduce a new Group-wide code of practice with a broader and restructured approach. 

By implementing these measures, Munich Re complies with the requirements set out in the LkSG.

Munich Re (Group): Declaration of Principles on Respecting and Protecting Human Rights

Grievance procedure

Anyone can report human rights risks and breaches of duties to respect human rights using our whistleblowing portal. Whistleblowers can access the portal via the corporate intranet or the public Munich Re website. Reports of potential human rights violations that reach us via other channels (e.g. email) are handled using the same principles and processes.

Every reported case of potential misconduct is carefully reviewed and if violations are confirmed, appropriate disciplinary measures are initiated if necessary. When human rights violations within our remit are brought to our attention, we examine the matter carefully, enter into dialogue with the affected parties if appropriate, and launch the necessary preventive or mitigation measures to avoid, terminate or mitigate the violation in question.

Reporting and communication

The responsibility we take for protecting human rights is reflected in the internal and external reports we publish every year on progress and decision-making processes.

Our corporate due diligence requirements are set out in various internal guidelines, codes and work instructions.

The following publicly accessible documents detail how Munich Re upholds its responsibility for respecting human rights: our Combined non-financial statement, our Communication on Progress to the UN Global Compact (CoP), on the Principles for Sustainable Insurance (PSI) and the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI).

In addition, in line with regulations, we publish a statement signed by the Board of Management as part of Munich Re's Human Rights declaration, the UK Modern Slavery Act and on the Australian Modern Slavery Act.