Sustainability ratings firm EcoVadis launched a digital grievance platform on Thursday called Worker Voice Connect to help companies address worker concerns more effectively across global supply chains and strengthen accountability on human rights.
The new solution gives factory and field workers a simple, anonymous way to report grievances and track resolutions in real time. It aims to close the gap left by traditional grievance systems, which often fail to reach supply chain workers.
Bridging Gaps in Worker Communication
“Grievance and whistleblower channels have existed for decades, but mostly for direct employees,” said Pierre-Francois Thaler, EcoVadis’ co-chief executive and co-founder. “They rarely reach supply chain workers, leaving companies blind to potential risks.”
Grievance mechanisms are a core part of human rights due diligence. However, many were built for corporate compliance rather than for protecting labor rights.
As a result, vulnerable workers often remain excluded or afraid to use such systems, allowing small problems to escalate into major risks for businesses and employees.
A Direct, Anonymous Channel
EcoVadis said Worker Voice Connect offers secure two-way communication that protects anonymity and prevents retaliation.
The system allows continuous dialogue between workers, suppliers and buyers, helping companies spot risks early and comply with human rights and due diligence laws.
Unlike most grievance tools, the new platform works through everyday channels such as WhatsApp, QR codes and web links, eliminating the need for corporate apps or smartphones. It supports 20 languages, ensuring accessibility across regions and industries.
Transparency and Shared Accountability
Both suppliers and buyers can use built-in dashboards to monitor cases, track remediation, and assess program performance. This transparency, EcoVadis said, builds trust and drives accountability at every level of the supply chain.
The company added that the tool is quick to set up and reduces the cost of building a grievance mechanism. It also facilitates data sharing across networks, encouraging collaboration among global supply chain partners.
Rising Scrutiny on Labor Practices
“We’re seeing growing demand for labor and human rights solutions as new due diligence regulations tighten oversight,” Thaler said. “Worker rights are now an ethical, financial, and regulatory issue. Companies that ignore them face real consequences.”
The platform builds on EcoVadis’ earlier Worker Voice tools developed with Ulula, a technology partner with experience in direct worker engagement. It aligns with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
Supporting Compliance and Market Access
EcoVadis said Worker Voice Connect helps companies identify risks before they escalate, improving compliance and worker well-being. The tool will be available to 1,500 buyers in the EcoVadis network, representing €2.3 trillion ($2.67 trillion) in global spending.
The company expects the solution to strengthen human rights accountability and help businesses access premium, regulated markets.
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