Advancing human rights: three lessons for businesses

For years, one big challenge of working at the intersection of business and human rights was explaining to my family what it is, exactly, that I do every day. In the last couple of years, though, that challenge – at least – has disappeared.

Today, it's rare to open the paper (or your favorite news app) and not see a business-related human-rights story. But while increased awareness is a great first step, we need to move to the next phase: real action by business and governments that tangibly improves the lives of those whose rights are affected by business operations.

Companies in all sectors face human-rights risks across all aspects of their businesses. The revelations about widespread government surveillance of internet and phone communications are just the latest example.

Travel, hospitality and construction companies have joined the fight against human trafficking. Apparel, footwear and toy companies are struggling to improve poor working conditions in global supply chains. Food, beverage and agriculture firms are working to eliminate child labor. Meanwhile, financial services companies are trying to better understand their role as investors in helping address these risks.

Since the United Nations in 2011 endorsed the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, which outline the responsibilities of states and businesses, businesses' awareness of human rights issues – as well as pressure from investors and human rights organizations – has grown.

Governments also have adopted policies to encourage business action. The UK earlier this month passed a national action plan for business and human rights, while the European Commission in June released its guidance on implementing the Guiding Principles for the oil and gas, information technology and temporary work industries.

(2013-09-18/theguardian)