'Organic' is a regulated term used to distinguish systems of managed production and products derived therefrom that adhere to principles of health, ecology, fairness and care, and which are certified compliant to an organic standard's regulations by an Approved Certification Body.
GOTS defines organic textiles as being made with fibres from organic agriculture systems that are certified to one of the IFOAM Family of Standards, and that are processed in socially and ecologically responsible ways, in alignment with organic principles.
standard glossary text
") ([GOTS](https://gots.vorschau.website/resources/glossary/gots "The worldwide leading voluntary sustainability standard for the post-harvest textile value chain for certified organic fibres, covering environmental criteria, human rights, social criteria and business conduct.
")), in cooperation with the Hague-based UpRights Foundation, is proud to launch the [GOTS Due Diligence Handbook for Certified Entities](https://gots.vorschau.website/images/news/archiv/resource-library/documents/GOTS_Due_Diligence_Handbook_for_Certified_Entities_10.pdf). This landmark publication is a crucial step forward in the promotion of [sustainability](https://gots.vorschau.website/resources/glossary/sustainability "In 1987, the United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
"), [human rights](https://gots.vorschau.website/resources/glossary/human-rights "Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status. Human rights include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more. Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination. (Source: Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, United Nations)
") and ethical business conduct in the textile sector. Ruslan Alyamkin, Responsible, [Standard](https://gots.vorschau.website/resources/glossary/standard "standard glossary text
") Development and Implementation (Social Responsibility) at GOTS, stated, "The GOTS Due Diligence Handbook marks a significant progression following the incorporation of Due Diligence Criteria in the latest GOTS 7.0 version. It is a testament to GOTS's commitment to supporting Certified Entities in their journey towards required responsible business practises. The Handbook underscores GOTS's dedication to promoting human rights, social justice and environmental integrity". **Clear Guidance for GOTS Certified Entities Based on Recognised International Standards** The GOTS Due Diligence Handbook for Certified Entities is based on the recognised international frameworks, including the [OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains in the Garment and Footwear Sector](https://gots.vorschau.website/index.php?option=com_acymailing&ctrl=url&subid=49355&urlid=1013&mailid=534) (2018) and the [UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights](https://gots.vorschau.website/index.php?option=com_acymailing&ctrl=url&subid=49355&urlid=1015&mailid=534) (UNGPs). The Handbook offers GOTS Certified Entities clear guidance on integrating due diligence processes into their operations, thereby helping them to comply with domestic due diligence laws such as the German Supply Chain Law, French Vigilance Law, and upcoming EU legislation. **A Comprehensive Blueprint** The GOTS Due Diligence Handbook for Certified Entities was developed as a structured roadmap, leading Certified Entities through the process of establishing and refining their management systems. The emphasis of the Handbook is on a holistic due diligence approach, ensuring that GOTS-certified companies not only identify but also proactively prevent and effectively mitigate potential adverse impacts on human rights and the environment. The Handbook ensures that GOTS Certified Entities are equipped with the knowledge and tools to respond to potential challenges, transforming them into leaders in [responsible business conduct](https://gots.vorschau.website/resources/glossary/responsible-business-conduct "A comprehensive approach to business operations that aligns with the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains in the Garment and Footwear Sector. It encompasses a range of practices and policies that businesses should adopt to ensure they contribute positively to sustainable development, respect human rights, protect the environment and uphold ethical standards throughout their operations and supply chains.
") within the textile sector. The GOTS 7.0 criteria, bolstered by this Handbook, paves the way for a more sustainable and socially conscious business approach in the textile sector. **OECD Standards Assessment** GOTS is currently undergoing the OECD Alignment Assessment, a three-stage process that will result in a reputable, independent evaluation of the GOTS Criteria's alignment with the OECD's due diligence guidance documents. The process includes a Standards Assessment, an Implementation Assessment and a Credibility Assessment. As GOTS enters the Standard Assessment phase, it effectively showcases its dedication to sustainable practices, in line with the comprehensive international framework for responsible garment and footwear supply chain laid out in the OECD Due Diligence Guidance. This process, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, began in July 2023 and is expected to be completed in January 2024. **GOTS is committed excellence and improvement** GOTS remains committed to enhancing its criteria and systems to ensure better transparency, credibility, and trust for its Certified Entities and the general public. In line with this, GOTS is working towards creating further guidelines for its Certification Bodies, to empower them with the necessary tools and knowledge to improve their auditing and verification techniques to ensure compliance with GOTS 7.0 criteria. **About UpRights Foundation:** UpRights develops partnerships to use international law to promote human rights. We support those most able to bring about change in local communities based on our significant experience in business and human rights. We recognize that developing effective solutions requires tailored legal advice that is responsive to our partners’ needs. For more information please visit: