DeepL Code of Conduct For Partners

Introduction

DeepL is committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethics and responsible business practices across our global operations. We leverage our expertise in Deep Learning to develop technologies that enhance multilingual communication.

As our business partners, promoting, selling, or supporting our products and services, you play a crucial role in extending our brand and mission. Therefore, we require all partners to adhere to this Code of Conduct for Partners. By partnering with us, you agree to uphold these standards.

This Code of Conduct sets out the minimum standards that we require from you as a key DeepL partner. It’s based on core, internationally recognised values such as those set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ILO conventions, and the UN Global Compact.

In the event of a conflict, please prioritise compliance with applicable law, followed by the terms of your contract with DeepL, and then refer to this Code of Conduct for Partners.

1. Lawful Conduct: You must comply with all applicable laws and regulations in the countries where you operate and market DeepL products/services. This includes, but is not limited to, laws related to business registration, taxation, marketing, sales, and international trade.
2. Brand Representation and Quality: You must represent DeepL's products, services, and brand accurately and professionally at all times. Marketing and sales practices must be truthful and ethical, avoiding any misleading or deceptive claims. You should strive to ensure customer satisfaction and handle inquiries or issues related to DeepL products/services promptly and professionally, aligning with DeepL's commitment to quality.
3. Anti-Corruption: You must conduct your business with integrity and prevent any form of corruption. This includes compliance with all relevant anti-corruption laws, including StGB §299 (German Criminal Code), the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), and the UK Bribery Act. In particular, this means you mustn’t offer or provide any form of bribe or improper payment to government officials, political parties, candidates, private individuals, or other persons, to gain an unfair business advantage. Accordingly, the exchange of gifts, meals, or entertainment must be conducted responsibly and transparently, complying with the recipient’s organisational policies.
4. Anti-Money Laundering: You must comply with all applicable laws concerning the prevention and detection of money laundering and terrorist financing.
5. Conflict of Interest: You must avoid situations in which the personal interests of your employees may influence, or appear to influence, business decisions involving DeepL. You should promptly disclose any potential or actual conflict to DeepL.
6. Sanctions Compliance: You must comply with all applicable economic and trade sanctions laws, regulations, embargoes, and restrictive measures imposed by DeepL. You shall not engage, directly or indirectly, in any business activities related to DeepL that would violate these sanctions. You are responsible for ensuring that your operations related to DeepL do not expose the company to the risk of sanctions violations. 
7. Fair Competition: You must compete fairly and ethically, adhering to all applicable antitrust and competition laws. Agreements or concerted practices with competitors regarding pricing, market division, or other anti-competitive actions are strictly prohibited. No exchange of competitively sensitive information should occur.
8. Human Rights, Ethical Sourcing & Labour Practices:We expect you to promote ethical practices within your operations and supply chains, specifically:
   • You should take all reasonable steps to ensure that your global business and supply chains are free from child labour, forced labour, slavery, and human trafficking.
   • You should ensure your employees can enjoy a workplace free from discrimination or harassment, with equal opportunities for all.
   • You should have appropriate processes in place to prevent sexual harassment, ensure prompt investigation and resolution of complaints, and hold violators accountable. If you become aware of any complaints of sexual harassment linked to DeepL, you should promptly let us know (where appropriate).
   • You should comply with relevant regulations governing minimum wages, benefits, holidays, breaks, and working hours.
   • You should ensure your employees enjoy freedom of association and collective bargaining, in accordance with applicable laws.
   • You should ensure a safe and healthy work environment, taking reasonable steps to prevent accidents or injuries.
   • You should ensure that your employees are able to raise genuine ethical or legal concerns without risk of retaliation. 
9. Environmental Responsibility: You must comply with all applicable environmental regulations and are encouraged to adopt sustainable business practices, such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and responsible resource usage. DeepL supports continuous improvement in environmental performance and encourages partners to set and pursue sustainability targets.
10. Compliance & Reporting: To give effect to this Code, we expect you to:
    • take reasonable steps to ensure relevant employees, agents, and subcontractors are aware of and comply with it,
    • cooperate fully and promptly with us regarding any reasonable compliance request we make,
    • report to us any suspected breach or any other unethical or unlawful behaviour involving DeepL-related business. 

By acting as a DeepL partner, you acknowledge and agree to adhere to the principles outlined in this Code of Conduct for Partners.