In June 2025, Global Standard gathered 30 auditors from 17 Certification Bodies in 11 countries for a new training programme on Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD). This step is an important part of our ongoing efforts to improve the GOTS assurance system and support certified entities as social responsibility and sustainability expectations rise.
Why this training matters
The textile and apparel industry faces more complex regulations than ever. With new international laws and regulations, such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and a global focus on supply chain transparency, auditors require more than technical skills. They have to spot risks, understand real-world situations and apply standards fairly in different regions and cultures.
This new training programme addresses exactly those needs. Auditors learned about GOTS due diligence requirements, compared them to national laws and international frameworks, practiced advanced auditing and discussed important topics like workplace pressures, gender issues and cultural awareness.
The training went far beyond traditional lectures: Auditors immersed themselves in interactive simulations and role-plays to practice what they learned. They conducted interviews, reviewed documents, and worked through real-life situations. This hands-on approach created an active space for sharing best practices and learning collaboratively from both experts and peers.
Connecting to the bigger picture
This training is one part of Global Standard’s wider effort to meet international standards and make due diligence a core part of our assurance system. Earlier this year, the OECD published a report recognising our progress in integrating responsible business practices into our system. This training builds on that and ensures auditors are ready to put these frameworks into action.
By deepening auditors’ better understanding of human rights due diligence and how it fits into GOTS certification, we aim to make audits more consistent, credible and effective. This not only builds trust with Certified Entities and brands, but also safeguards the rights and wellbeing of the workers and communities at the heart of the global textile value chain.
Looking ahead
Auditors told us that practical, hands-on learning matters most. Many valued the interactive simulations and discussions, which showed how due diligence works in real audits. Based on this feedback, Global Standard will keep improving the training, offering more tailored content, case studies and materials in different languages to make learning easier for everyone.
For us, this training is more than just a programme. It shows our ongoing commitment to making human rights due diligence a priority in the textile sector. By helping auditors build their skills and follow international standards, we are strengthening the GOTS assurance system while contributing to safer, better and more sustainable working conditions around the world.
Acknowledgement of funding support
This project was possible thanks to a grant from the ISEAL Innovations Fund, which is supported by the SECO Wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung and UK International Development from the UK government Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
