Social Care and Dialogue

Inspired by the pioneering spirit of our founder, Ernest Solvay, we've long believed that investing in our employees is not only the right thing to do, but also the key to unlocking sustainable growth and achieving our purpose of bonding elements for a better future. Since then, we are pioneering social welfare, fostering an inclusive culture, and social dialogue. 

In 2005, Solvay, a founding member of IndustriALL, became the first chemical company to partner with the union, representing over 50 million workers globally. 

We recently renewed and strengthened our Solvay Global Forum Agreement and Global Framework Agreement with IndustriALL, focusing on mental and physical health, workplace safety, fighting discrimination, promoting inclusion and diversity, remote work rights, and environmental respect. 

The Solvay Global Forum represents our 9,000 colleagues worldwide, ensuring their voices are heard by leadership and their rights protected. It facilitates a two-way dialogue between senior leadership and employee representatives on a global level.

We continue to uphold the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact initiative regarding human rights, employee rights, the environment, and anti-corruption, reporting our progress annually.

Learn about the Solvay Global Forum

At Solvay, being a responsible employer means ensuring our people have a strong foundation of support, wherever they are in the world. Solvay Cares is our global program, designed to guarantee a minimum level of welfare and healthcare protection for all employees worldwide.

This initiative is a reflection of our commitment, ensuring consistency and security so our employees can focus on driving innovation with confidence.

Support for our people and their families

We are dedicated to building an equitable workplace, and Solvay Cares includes benefits that are competitive and inclusive:

• Equal parental leave: We guarantee competitive paid leave for all new parents—maternity, paternity, and adoption/co-parent leave—regardless of gender. This commitment supports our gender equality goals and allows all families necessary time to bond.
• Caregivers paid leave: We understand that unexpected emergencies happen at home. Solvay provides paid time off for employees who need to support or care for a loved one during an unforeseen event.

Health, resilience, and security

Solvay Cares ensures that critical health and emotional support are available whenever our employees need them:

• Confidential well-being support: We provide free, confidential access to mental health services for every employee. This comprehensive program offers professional sessions and support available through multiple modalities.
• Major healthcare: The program provides essential financial coverage for major healthcare costs, such as hospitalization and critical illnesses.
• Disability and life coverage: Solvay provides strong support in the event of disability, including assistance with role adaptation, and comprehensive financial coverage for beneficiaries.

Our Solvay Cares Program establishes clear, minimum thresholds globally. We are dedicated to providing a secure and resilient foundation for our employees, ensuring local benefits meet or exceed these guaranteed levels.