DaimlerChrysler South Africa – Dealing With the Effects of HIV/AIDS on Human and Social Capital

Authors: Seitz, Bernhard; Staber, Udo; Joncyk, Claudia
Source: UN Global Compact Learning Forum
Year: 2002
Company Name: DaimlerChrysler South Africa
Number of pages: 27

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Abstract:

AIDS is a deadly disease. With 360.000 South Africans having died in 2001 because of HIV/AIDS and 5 Mio. South Africans being reported HIV positive (HIV+), the disease is a serious threat to social stability and economic prosperity in that country. DaimlerChrysler South Africa (DCSA), a wholly owned subsidiary of DaimlerChrysler AG, is attempting to limit the impact and consequences of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on its workers, their families, and surrounding communities through its HIV/AIDS workplace and community outreach program. At the company level, the program is intended to protect and maintain workers' health, and thereby to support productivity and to limit cost impacts. At a larger social and political level, DCSA sets an example for a strategic and human rights oriented approach to the disease, in a country where AIDS is still sometimes surrounded by myths and misperceptions. Through its HIV/AIDS program, DCSA supports Global Compact principles one (to support and respect the protection of international human rights within its sphere of influence), two (to ensure that the company is not complicit in human rights abuses), and six (to help eliminate discrimination in the area of employment and occupation).