The DHL Protocol covers all transport and logistics workers at DHL globally. This page will help you understand what the DHL Protocol is, how to use it, and why it’s a vital tool for organising and bargaining.
The Protocol is a set of key principles agreed by the DHL Group, the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) and UNI Global Union (UNI). It establishes the global relationship between the three parties and serves as a framework for navigating and resolving industrial issues with DHL at a global level. The Protocol was first signed in July 2016 and has since been renewed in 2019, 2022 and 2024.
DHL commits to the implementation of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. In particular, DHL acknowledges the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining. Therefore, the Protocol is an important tool for strengthening local dialogue between DHL management and unions around the world.
At the ITF Congress in Marrakech in October 2024, the ITF adopted an ambitious Supply Chain Accountability Programme, which provides guidance for governments, companies, investors and other stakeholders looking to meaningfully engage with transport unions to check and improve standards in their supply chains. In our work to implement the Protocol with our affiliated unions, we use these principles to strengthen DHL's HRDD processes at all levels.
Our priority is to make the Protocol work for our affiliated unions and their members working at DHL by:
> Improving the rights, safety and standards for all DHL workers
> Supporting affiliated unions in their organising and bargaining campaigns at DHL
> Enforcing the DHL's human rights due diligence responsibilities globally
Unions play a key role in enforcing the Protocol and holding DHL accountable for ensuring decent standards, pay and conditions for all its workers, whether directly employed or working in its supply chain.
If your union represents DHL workers or you would like more information about the DHL Protocol, please get in touch at DHLProtocolSupport@itf.org.uk or use the form to sign up.