We see human rights as fundamental principles for protecting people’s dignity and ensuring freedom and respect both in our own operations, in the companies with whom we work, and in the communities where we operate. Our commitment to upholding human rights is outlined in our 'Sustainability commitment', 'Global human rights policy', 'Global labour and employment rights policy', 'Stakeholder engagement policy', and 'Just transition policy'. Our 'Global human rights policy' aligns with the UN Guiding Principles on Business & Human Rights (UNGPs), the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, the International Bill of Human Rights, and the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Declaration on Fundamental Principles & Rights at Work. The policy explicitly highlights our dedication to ensuring freedom of association, the right to collective bargaining, the elimination of forced, trafficked, or compulsory labour, the effective abolition of child labour, and the elimination of discrimination in employment and occupation, among other critical issues.

In 2024, the methodology on the gender pay gap calculations was changed to meet the requirements of the ESRS. The gender pay gap of 14% consists of individual gender pay gaps across countries where Ørsted operates. The differences in gender mix across career levels impact the pay gap. Salaries are reviewed annually, and increases come into effect on 1 June. Employees must have been employed for 12 months on that date to be included in the calculation.