What is the Harkin-Engel Protocol? Have Mars and the industry met the requirements of the Protocol?
The Protocol calls for development of a credible system of certification that will ensure cocoa is grown free from abusive child labor. With the certification system now in place in pilot areas of Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana, plans are being developed for the system’s further expansion. The industry is proud of its work to meet the obligations of the Protocol, and is committed to refining the certification process and to improving the lives of West African cocoa farmers and their families. On July 1, 2005, the cocoa industry and Senator Tom Harkin issued a joint statement detailing the progress that has been made in cocoa sustainability efforts.
