Code of Ethics Toolkit
Introduction to the WFDSA Code of Ethics
WFDSA’s Code of Ethics Toolkit – Follow the Code, Communicate the Code, Promote the Code was designed by the WFDSA Ethics Committee to educate various constituencies around the world about the best business practices and ethical standards of the direct selling industry.
This toolkit contains flexible tools for DSAs and their members to help them communicate and promote the Code to the widest audience possible. Whether you are a consumer, educator, public policy official, independent distributor or a direct selling company, we’ve got an exciting and instructive tool for you.
We realize that around the world, there are many outstanding examples of how the Code of Ethics is being effectively promoted to company employees, distributors, consumers and the general public. Many of those ideas could and should be incorporated into this toolkit. Therefore, we welcome additional ideas, thoughts and real life experiences that can help to enhance our toolkit!
Contributions:
WFDSA would like to extend special thanks to the following people who assisted in the completion of the toolkit: John Higson (Avon), WFDSA Ethics Committee Chair (2008-2011); Josephine Mills (Avon), WFDSA Assistant Treasurer (2003-2011); Tamuna Gabilaia, WFDSA Executive Director; Sandi Rowe (Avon) and Dominick Correale (Avon).
Overview of the WFDSA Code of Ethics
The World Code of Ethics is a constantly evolving, enforceable standard of behavior. It is the cornerstone of the direct selling industry’s commitment to ethical business practices and customer service. It is a mechanism that ensures independent salespeople and customers are treated fairly and respectfully. The World Code has global applicability as it applies in countries where DSAs currently do not exist.
In order for a DSA to become a member of WFDSA, it must adopt the minimum standards set forth by the Code of Ethics to the extent the requirements are consistent with the law in each particular country. Every DSA member company pledges to abide by the Code's standards and procedures as a condition of admission and continued membership in a DSA.
The national DSA’s Code of Ethics is enforced by an independent code administrator who is not connected with any member company.The code administrator will do everything possible to ensure Code compliance and where complaints exist, has the power to decide on remedies. All member companies agree to honor the administrator's decisions.
