The newly introduced BHR Informal Dialogues will offer an open, dynamic platform for inclusive and in-depth discussions on critical issues within the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These sessions are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of diverse ideas and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative space where all participants can directly engage with one another, enabling meaningful dialogue that promotes deeper understanding of key issues.
By encouraging active participation from all participants, the BHR Informal Dialogues seek to ensure that a broad range of voices contribute to shaping the future of business and human rights practices. This format prioritizes diversity of views and backgrounds, creating a space where different stakeholders can share insights, experiences, and best practices in a flexible and open environment.
This informal and interactive space is open to everyone and is designed to spark collaborative thinking, drive solution-oriented discussions, and contribute to advancing the global BHR agenda.
Each Interactive dialogue will be facilitated by one or two people to ensure effective and inclusive dialogue. The facilitators will guide the discussion, assist in maintaining a balanced conversation, and ensure that all voices are heard. This structure will help both facilitators and participants to ensure a free-flowing exchange of diverse ideas and perspectives. There will be no interpretation provided.
Topics for Discussion: The BHR Informal Dialogues will focus on a range of pressing topics, including:
- Development Finance Institutions (DFIs): Assessing the role of DFIs in promoting business practices that respect human rights.
Objectives- Raise awareness about DFIs’ responsibility in protecting human rights and ensuring public participation.
- Discuss and identify potential measures on how DFIs should strengthen their safeguards and accountability.
Guiding questions:- What specific strategies can DFIs adopt to promote a safe civic space and ensure meaningful public participation in development projects, while promoting human rights in their business practices?
- How can development finance institutions strengthen their accountability mechanisms to ensure effective access to remedy for communities affected by their investments?
