Loading…
Monday, November 25
 

9:00am CET

BHR informal dialogues: Just Transition
Monday November 25, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
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.

Topics for Discussion: The BHR Informal Dialogues will focus on a range of pressing topics, including:
  • Just Transition: Discussing how businesses can play a role in facilitating a fair and equitable transition to sustainable practices.
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.
Monday November 25, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
Room XIX

9:00am CET

BHR informal dialogues: State-based Judicial Mechanisms
Monday November 25, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
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.

Topics for Discussion: The BHR Informal Dialogues will focus on a range of pressing topics, including:
  • State-based Judicial Mechanisms: Exploring how state-led processes can effectively address business-related human rights abuses.
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.
Monday November 25, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
Room XXIV

10:00am CET

Exploring Reasonable Accommodation for Persons with Disabilities, including beyond the Workplace
Monday November 25, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET

Session co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights, The Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with disabilities, the ILO Global Business and Disability Network, the Disability Rights Fund and the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)


Brief description of the session: 
Building on last year’s session on Disability Rights as part of Business and Human Rights: Broadening the Discussion, this year’s session has a specific focus on "reasonable accommodation", sometimes referred to as “reasonable adjustments”, as a crucial element for upholding the rights of persons with disabilities in the context of business activities, and for strengthening their inclusion in all aspects of society. Reasonable accommodation aims to provide equal opportunities for employees at the workplace, so their skills and talents can be used to full capacity. By recognizing and accommodating individual needs, businesses create work environments that truly welcome the diversity of their staff and contribute to business activities.
By examining this concept and discussing how to implement reasonable accommodation effectively, the session seeks to identify best practices, challenges, and opportunities that ensure equal enjoyment and exercise of human rights. It aims to develop a better understanding of how to provide reasonable accommodations effectively, as well as to expand the understanding of reasonable accommodation beyond workplace settings, examining its relevance in various contexts such as education, healthcare, and public services.
 
Background to the discussions:
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) includes the core concept of "reasonable accommodation". This refers to the necessary and appropriate modification and adjustments not imposing a disproportionate or undue burden, which are needed in a particular case, to ensure to persons with disabilities have the enjoyment or exercise, on an equal basis with others, of all human rights. The denial of reasonable accommodation amounts to discrimination. Providing necessary adjustments in the workplace and beyond is in line with the State duty to protect and the business responsibility to respect under the UNGPs. Governments discharge of their duty to adopt and enforce laws and policies that protect the rights of persons with disabilities and businesses ensure the well-being and dignity of employees with disabilities, and those employees with dependants with disabilities. As such, reasonable accommodation is a critical component of the care and support agenda.
In the context of the business and human rights agenda, reasonable accommodation plays a pivotal role in ensuring that workplaces are inclusive and accessible. As businesses recognize the value of diversity and the economic benefits of an inclusive workforce, understanding the legal and ethical implications of reasonable accommodation becomes essential.

Key objectives of the session:
  • Deepen understanding of the linkages between disability rights and the business and human rights agenda, particularly in relation to the business responsibilities and benefits  related to the provision of reasonable accommodations.
  • Identification of good practices and innovative approaches to providing reasonable accommodation across different sectors and from various perspectives.
  • Strengthen networks among participants to foster ongoing collaboration and shared learning on disability rights and business practices.
  • Improve understanding on how insights from persons with disabilities can provide governments and businesses valuable context regarding the real-life implications of reasonable accommodation, ensuring that policies reflect the needs and rights of persons with disabilities.

Background documents:
Promoting diversity and inclusion through workplace adjustments: A practical guide (2016)
This guide aims to explain the concept of reasonable adjustments (“reasonable accommodation”) and provide practical step-by-step guidance on how and when these should be provided in the workplace.
CRPD/C/GC/8: General comment No. 8 (2022) on the right of persons with disabilities to work and employment
CRPD/C/GC/6: General comment No.6 on equality and non-discrimination
Monday November 25, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Room XX

10:00am CET

10:00am CET

Tech & BHR *
Monday November 25, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Monday November 25, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Room XXIV

11:40am CET

Opening plenary
Monday November 25, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Monday November 25, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Room XX

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: Financial Institutions
Monday November 25, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • Financial Institutions: Exploring responsible investment practices and their impact on human rights. 

No interpretation will be provided. 

Monday November 25, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XIX

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: Human Rights Defenders & Civil Society Organizations
Monday November 25, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • Human Rights Defenders & Civil Society Organizations: Addressing challenges and opportunities in advocating for human rights within business contexts. 

No interpretation will be provided. 


Monday November 25, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XX

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: Trade unions
Monday November 25, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • Trade Unions: Discussing labour rights and the intersection of business practices with workers’ rights. 

No interpretation will be provided. 


Monday November 25, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XXIV

3:00pm CET

A smart mix of measures to leverage the contribution of financial actors to a just transition
Monday November 25, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on business and human rights, the Investor Alliance for Human Rights and Principles for Responsible Investment

Interpretation available in English, French and Spanish

(Version française ci-jointe)
(Versión en español adjunta)


Brief description of the session:
A just transition refers to the transition to a green and zero-carbon economy that is fair and inclusive, creates decent work opportunities, reduces poverty and inequalities and upholds the human rights of workers, including in the informal sector, and affected communities, in particular Indigenous Peoples and populations affected by environmental degradation and energy poverty, through social dialogue and meaningful participation in decision-making including on the use of land and natural resources (See A/78/155). Thus, a just transition includes environmental, social, economic, climate change and human rights aspects. Just transition programmes will require adequate and appropriate financing from the private sector, including contributions from the financial sector (like institutional investors and banks). Some States have started introducing a few financial incentives and regulatory measures for businesses and investors to enable a just transition. However, regulatory gaps remain.

Beyond financing and investing in environmentally sustainable business and projects, financial sector actors have various forms of leverage they can exercise to push businesses and States to support sustainable business practices and a global economy. These include stewardship activities targeting investees or responsibly advocating for the creation of an enabling environment, and government incentives and public-private partnerships that address the environmental and social risks inherent to this transition. These all have strengths and limitations. Further, investors and banks must overcome environmental, social and governance (ESG) silos in approaches to sustainability, as a just transition necessitates understanding how environmental, sustainable development and human rights impacts are inextricably intertwined.

Key objectives of the session:
In a complex landscape, a smart mix of both good guidance and targeted regulation plays a role in maximizing the leverage of financial actors to contribute to a just transition. With a focus on renewable energy, and critical energy transition minerals, the panel will discuss key recommendations around how a smart mix of measures, both on sustainable finance and for the real economy, can be implemented to ensure effective policy and finance sector action towards the just transition.

Key discussion questions:
  • What leverage can the financial sector and States bring to bear in the transition to a green economy?
  • How are those forms of leverage impactful and what are their limitations?
  • How can a smart mix of regulatory and voluntary measures and incentives help overcome those limitations and enable a just transition? 

Background to the discussion
Monday November 25, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Room XIX

3:00pm CET

Have Smart Mix measures worked for (W)HRDs, Indigenous Peoples and afro-descendent communities?
Monday November 25, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Monday November 25, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Room XX

3:00pm CET

Labour rights*
Monday November 25, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Monday November 25, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Room XXIV

4:40pm CET

Empowering SMEs: Awareness Raising and Capacity Building in Business and Human Rights
Monday November 25, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET


Brief description
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) account for 90% of businesses and 50-60% of employment worldwide: they are overwhelmingly present in economic activities around the world. SMEs are vital to economic growth and job creation globally, including when operating in environments where human rights risks are heightened, especially in conflict-affected areas. SMEs frequently lack the enabling legal and policy environment, the incentives, as well as the resources and knowledge to implement effectively the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), which may affect their potential of integrating human rights due diligence in their daily operations. This session aims to consider ways to strengthen the capacity of SMEs to address these matters.
It is essential for SMEs to gain awareness about their responsibilities under the UNGPs and build capacities. In addition, the introduction of new regulations with global reach, including the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and national human rights due diligence requirements in France, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway, present SMEs with new challenges and expectations. These new mandatory requirements expect governments to provide support and guidance to SMEs and businesses to devise collaborative approaches.
This session will aim to empower SMEs with the knowledge and tools necessary to incorporate the UNGPs, especially human rights due diligence, into their operations to ensure that they can action better their responsibilities to respect human rights. It also aims to foster sustainable business practices by SMEs and position them as important potential agents for positive transformative local change to reduce adverse human rights impacts from business activities.

Objectives
  • Increase awareness and understanding of the importance for SMEs to integrate human rights due diligence into business operations, including for SMEs in conflict-affected areas.
  • Assist participants with practical tools and resources to implement human rights due diligence and foster responsible business practices. This would also include guidance on conducting human rights impact assessments, stakeholder engagement, and effective grievance mechanisms.
  • Foster stakeholder engagement with SMEs, particularly from supply chain end points, associations, regulators and governments (e.g., through legislation, trade policies, and diplomacy for cross-border cooperation enabling HRDD).
  • Explore challenges SMEs face in taking action and highlight best practices of SMEs that have effectively integrated responsible business practices into their business models.
  • Share resources available for SMEs, including training programs, online-tools, helpdesks, funding opportunities, and partnerships with civil society.

Monday November 25, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Room XX

4:40pm CET

Legally Binding Instrument on business and human rights*
Monday November 25, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Monday November 25, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Room XXIV

4:40pm CET

Raising the Bar through Climate Change Litigation
Monday November 25, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on business and human rights and the Office for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Interpretation available in English, French and Spanish

(Version française ci-jointe)
(Versión en español adjunta)


Brief description of the session: 
The use of litigation to achieve progress on climate change and human rights has nearly tripled since the Paris Agreement was reached in 2015. More recently, in 2022 the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 76/300, recognising “the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as a human right”. This recognition followed the UN Human Rights Council resolution 48/13 which acknowledged the right in October 2021. As activists and civil society organizations are increasingly seeking to hold States and businesses accountable for their role in contributing to the multiple planetary crises and related harm to human rights, including those of future generations, climate litigation is being used as a tool to influence policy outcomes or change corporate behaviour. Climate litigation has shown its potential to lead to a smart mix of measures to address climate change and uphold human rights by strengthening regulation, incentives, policies, corporate practices, and benchmarking. This has in turn led to an increased emphasis on the role of businesses, including their need to conduct human rights due diligence with environmental dimensions. While some emerging multistakeholder initiatives are trying to tackle these issues, the question remains of how States and businesses can better collaborate with civil society organizations and other stakeholders to raise awareness and increase implementation of human rights-respecting frameworks in the context of climate change.      

Key objectives of the session: 
  • Provide an overview of climate change and human rights litigation globally and regionally. 
  • Set out the case and evidence for putting climate change and human rights into the boardroom, through the lens of a human rights-based economy.  
  • Highlight opportunities and benefits for States and businesses to accelerate their actions on climate change and human rights, by addressing commonly perceived barriers.  
  • Discuss tangible steps on how different stakeholder groups and rightsholders can move forward to ensure the effective promotion and protection of human rights in the context of climate change, including implementation.  
 
Additional background documents: 

Monday November 25, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Room XIX
 
Tuesday, November 26
 

9:00am CET

BHR informal dialogues: Conflict-Affected Areas
Tuesday November 26, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
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.

Topics for Discussion: The BHR Informal Dialogues will focus on a range of pressing topics, including:
  • Conflict-Affected Areas: Focusing on the responsibilities of businesses operating in regions affected by conflict.
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.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
Room XXIV

9:00am CET

BHR informal dialogues: Corporate Influence in the Political and Regulatory Sphere
Tuesday November 26, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
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.

Topics for Discussion: The BHR Informal Dialogues will focus on a range of pressing topics, including:
  • Corporate Influence in the Political and Regulatory Sphere: Investigating the role of corporate lobbying and its impact on human rights legislation, regulation and policies.
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.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
Room XX

9:00am CET

BHR informal dialogues: Development Finance Institutions
Tuesday November 26, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
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.

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.
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.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
Room XIX

10:00am CET

Snapshot series on groups at risk: Addressing irresponsible disengagement for a just energy transition: empowering communities through a decolonization, decarbonization, and decentralization lens
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:00am - 10:25am CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights, SOMO (the Centre for Research on Multinational Corporations), and Asociación Interamericana para la Defensa del Ambiente (AIDA) – Latinoamérica  

Topic
The session aims to unveil pathways towards a just energy transition, highlighting the legal empowerment of communities and broadening access to justice through an enriched dialogue within a smart mix of measures.

Focus
We aim to explore legal strategies that can promote a just transition by empowering communities to ensure access to justice. We also aim to delve into the symbiosis interplay of decolonisation, decarbonisation, and decentralisation, enriched while addressing environmental racism and embedding gender and intersectionality perspectives. These principles not only advocate for the dismantling of historical power imbalances but also underscore the importance of fairness,     inclusive decision-making and restorative justice for Indigenous and marginalised communities.

Objectives
The primary objective of this session is to showcase case studies and legal strategies attempted by Global South communities that have challenged the unfairness of the energy transition while also championing the rights of local communities, with a focus on the irresponsible disengagement of carbon fossil fuel industries. This session aims to leverage (legal) strategies in a multi-stakeholder dialogue, to build a sustainable and just future.
We strive to unravel the intricate link between environmental justice and human rights and inspire States and corporate entities to adopt progressive, community-centred and innovative strategies to stop abusive practices. These strategies must prioritise community engagement, uphold respect for the rights of Indigenous and marginalised groups, provide tangible remedies for any adverse impacts of business activities, and demonstrate why responsible closure of carbon fossil fuel industries is not only fair for local communities but also desirable for our planet and societies.

Background documents:
Summary of regional event on just transition and climate litigation that we organized last year in Bogotá: https://aida-americas.org/es/encuentro-latinoamericano-sobre-litigio-climatico-y-transicion-energetica-justa-resumen-de-memorias (in Spanish)

Reflections from Colombia for a Just Energy Transition: document with reflections that make visible specific projects, public policies and regulations that hinder a true just transition by deepening the extraction and use of fuels that aggravate the climate crisis and imply social and environmental risks in the territories. They are collective reflections, supported by other international organizations that, like AIDA, seek climate justice and work to defend the environment and human rights. https://aida-americas.org/es/reflexiones-desde-colombia-para-una-transicion-energetica-justa (in Spanish)

Report that sets out five reasons why coal mining and burning must end from economic, political, environmental, climate and human rights perspectives. In addition, it presents arguments in favor of the decarbonization of Latin America's energy matrix through a process framed in climate justice that respects human rights and gender equality. https://aida-americas.org/es/carbon-un-combustible-condenado-al-entierro-el-final-de-una-era-y-la-promesa-de-una-transicion-justa (in Spanish)
https://www.stakeholderdemocracy.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Full-report-Delta-Divestments.pdf

This research analyses the changing context driving divestments and raises several questions about the responsibility of International Oil Companies (IOC) to address the toxic legacies and the implications for communities in the Niger Delta and Nigeria writ large. This includes whether Domestic Oil Companies (DOCs) can improve the performance of the IOCs or if new dynamics could emerge, exacerbating the impacts on citizens, the environment, and the economy.
https://www.stakeholderdemocracy.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Addressing-the-South-Souths-Environmental-Emergency.pdf

This paper calls for a high profile intervention on environmental issues to avoid Nigeria slipping further into conflict in the North and South. The paper argues that any discussion on sustainable development, prosperity and economic security in the Niger Delta must recognise the economic importance of the services provided by local ecosystems. Equally, the paper argues that discussion related to the stability of the Niger Delta region must recognise that the loss of sustainable livelihoods as a result of environmental degradation has been a major contributor to the conflict in the Niger Delta over recent years.
https://www.somo.nl/shells-reckless-divestment-from-niger-delta/
https://www.somo.nl/selling-out-the-niger-delta/
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:00am - 10:25am CET
Room XXIV

10:00am CET

Is the Arms Industry Exempt from Human Rights Due Diligence?
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Room XX

10:00am CET

Do National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights Work in the Asia-Pacific?
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Session organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights 

Brief description of the session: 
After a decade of implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), national action plans on business and human rights (NAPs) have increasingly become a mainstay in efforts to promote business and human rights (BHR) in the Asia-Pacific region. Thus far, nine countries have adopted a NAP or similar document. But as civic spaces continue to recede in this region, are these NAPs truly enough to help ensure that business-related human rights abuses are being systematically addressed and prevented? How can NAPs be implemented in ‘hard’ places to ensure that ‘rights-washing’ – whereupon NAPs simply become a box-ticking exercise for States and businesses – does not happen? Will real implementation only happen once mandatory Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) measures are put in place? And how can the third pillar of the UNGPs – access to remedy – be better integrated into the design and execution of these plans?

This session brings together experts and practitioners of BHR to assess the effectiveness of NAPs in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as discuss the progress made and challenges that remain in terms of their implementation. Further, speakers will reflect on positive practices that should guide how NAPs are developed, implemented, and enforced. The session will be conducted in a ‘fireside chat’ format, such that speakers are asked to provide frank responses to a series of trigger questions and interactive engagement with the audience will be prioritized.

Key questions: 
  • To what extent are the NAPs that have been developed or which are developing in the region aligned with the UNGPs and other key international instruments such as the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct and the ILO’s MNE Declaration and International Labour Standards?
  • How can genuine multi-stakeholder dialogue and participation, including of stakeholders at the grassroots level, be effectively ensured in NAP development and implementation processes?
  • When should NAPs be updated and revised? Are there good practices or lessons learned that can be drawn upon in the revision of the NAPs?
  • How can ‘rights-washing’ be prevented in the development and implementation of NAPs in the Asia-Pacific region?
  • How can we know if a NAP has succeeded or failed?

Additional background documents:
 
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Room XIX

10:25am CET

Snapshot series on groups at risk: Lessons and good practices on a smart mix of measures in the agricultural sector
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:25am - 10:50am CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and the International Cocoa Initiative

In the agricultural sector, child labor is widely recognized as a serious human rights issue, affecting various industries including cocoa production. Over the past decade, both voluntary and mandatory measures have been introduced in producer and consumer countries. On one hand, the private sector has made efforts to integrate human rights due diligence into global supply chains, employing systems such as the Child Labour Monitoring and Remediation System (CLMRS), which has contributed to a significant reduction in child labor. On the other hand, governments in producer countries have implemented policies, action plans, and national systems to address and monitor child labor, while governments in consumer countries have mandated human rights due diligence (HRDD).

This session will review the progress, achievements, and ongoing challenges, examining how a combination of strategies has facilitated the effective implementation of HRDD across the agricultural sector and contributed to the reduction of child labor, with a particular focus on the cocoa industry.

Objectives of the session:
- Reflect on the drivers and obstacles of a smart mix in the agricultural sector
- Share good practices of smart mixes in the actions of States, businesses, and other stakeholders.
- Discuss the impact of MSIs’ involvement in the smart mix of measures


Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:25am - 10:50am CET
Room XXIV

10:55am CET

Snapshot series on groups at risk: Policy in Practice: The case for private sector action on reproductive rights at work
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:55am - 11:20am CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

Are workplace policies addressing gender-based violence and harassment, accommodating health and safety contingencies for pregnant women, or mandating counseling and services for HIV? Approximately 190 million women work in global supply chains – in the factories, farms, and packing houses that supply the world’s clothing, goods, and food, and yet the average workplace today does not assume accountability for women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights. Businesses can be a key ally for delivering sexual and reproductive health information and services via the workplace to millions of their employees across the world. It is with this in mind that the UNFPA-led Coalition for Reproductive Justice in Business is pleased to host a snapshot session on the sidelines of the OHCHR Business and Human Rights Forum. The session targeted to c-suite corporate leaders, policy makers, International non-governmental organizations and civil society leaders and UN agency senior leadership representatives will aim to:
* Engage business on their role in advancing the sexual and reproductive health and rights of the women they engage as employees, suppliers, customers and communities;
* Present the recently launched policy paper by UNFPA and Accenture titled, “Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health in the Private Sector”;
* Build a community of practice with private sector partners who are willing to champion SRHR in the workplace through policies, awareness building programmes, and other actions that enhance access to services for women’s health
Tuesday November 26, 2024 10:55am - 11:20am CET
Room XXIV

11:20am CET

Snapshot series on groups at risk: Lived Realities in Accessing Remedy: A Grassroots Perspective on Remediating Human Rights and Environmental Harms by Industrial Diamond Mines in Africa
Tuesday November 26, 2024 11:20am - 11:45am CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights and IPIS (International Peace Information Service) 

This Snapshot presentation will share grassroots experiences from communities affected by industrial diamond mining across the African continent with various avenues for seeking redress for human rights and environmental harms stemming from diamond mining operations. Despite the diamond mining sector initially spearheading responsible sourcing initiatives with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme in 2003, many issues persist to date.
Presenters will offer first-hand perspectives from Tanzania and Lesotho, where communities and civil society have actively engaged with companies, government authorities, domestic and foreign courts, and operational-level grievance mechanisms to address corporate human rights and environmental impacts. They have pursued remedies for various issues, including abuses by security forces, pollution, floods, and land compensation disputes, with varying degrees of success. These real-life experiences will be used to provide tangible insights into the challenges and opportunities for human rights protection in mining contexts, and to derive broadly applicable strategies for addressing the complexities of remedy and accountability in the context of industrial mining across Africa.


Additional background documents: 
Challenges in securing access to remedy and restoring community relations after serious human rights abuse at the Williamson diamond mine (Tanzania) – report by the International Peace Information Service (IPIS): https://ipisresearch.be/publication/petra-diamonds-attempts-to-come-clean-with-its-tarnished-past-in-tanzania/

Grassroots impacts of diamond mining and the role of the Kimberly Process – reports, insights and statements by the Kimberly Process Civil Society Coalition: https://www.kpcivilsociety.org
Tuesday November 26, 2024 11:20am - 11:45am CET
Room XXIV

11:40am CET

Human Rights Due Diligence*
Tuesday November 26, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Tuesday November 26, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Room XX

11:40am CET

‘Smart Mix of Measures’ and Implications of European Legislative Developments in Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia
Tuesday November 26, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights, the Polish Institute for Human Rights and Business (PL), Y. Mudryi National Law University (UA), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)  
 
Interpretation provided in EnglishChinese and Russian. 

Brief description of the session:

Central and Eastern European and Central Asian countries are increasingly taking action to address the adverse impacts of business activities on people and the environment. This trend is being amplified by their varying levels of integration with the European Union—whether as EU member states, countries aspiring for accession, or due to close economicpolitical and other ties. With the adoption of EU regulations, particularly the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD)the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), due diligence requirements in the EU AI Act and CoE Framework Convention on AI and Human Rightsas well as national human rights due diligence requirements in countries like France and Germany, Central and Eastern European and Central Asian countries are facing new expectations. 

This session will explore the practical implications of these recent European legal developments on how business is done in Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia, from the perspectives of multiple stakeholders. It will focus on how governments are adapting their domestic legal frameworks to align with the new legally binding standards, and how businesses are preparing to meet these new obligations, particularly regarding enhanced human rights due diligence, how AI could be used in human rights due diligence. Furthermore, the session will examine how rights holders in the region can leverage these regulatory developments to ensure their rights are respected and to access effective remedies. 

Key objectives of the session: 
  •  Exchange insights on the challenges faced by businesses and governments in Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia as they work to meet the new European regulatory requirements, share methodologies for implementation, emerging practices and common mistakes.  
  •  Discuss how rights holders, including workers, worker organizations, and civil society groups, can use these regulatory changes to promote better models at national level, demand accountability and access remedies for human rights abuses within the region. 
Tuesday November 26, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Room XIX

11:50am CET

Snapshot series on groups at risk: Prevention and remedy of human rights abuses in the value chains of “critical” minerals: insights and cross-continental learning from Latin America and Africa
Tuesday November 26, 2024 11:50am - 12:15pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights Broederlijk Delen 

As investments into so-called “critical” minerals mining projects expand, local (indigenous) communities are often still left without effective mechanisms to protect their rights and to hold both states and private actors accountable for harm. This raises questions on the effectiveness of existing mechanisms for prevention, accessing justice and remediation that go beyond the particular of specific settings, highlighting the need for cross-continental learning and more coordinated global action for effective protection of human rights in the context of rising mineral demand. This session therefore aims to share insights, lessons and recommendations, drawing from specific experiences in Africa and Latin America.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 11:50am - 12:15pm CET
Room XXIV

12:15pm CET

Snapshot series on groups at risk: Advancing human rights due diligence in the financial sector
Tuesday November 26, 2024 12:15pm - 12:40pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on business and human rights and the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative 

Human rights and environmental issues are becoming a core consideration for financial institutions (FIs). FIs can play an important role in mitigating and adapting to the triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, pollution and climate change and are increasingly investing in the environment, including in the transition to renewable energy. However, for these efforts to contribute to sustainable development, FIs must avoid causing or contributing to negative impacts on human rights. FIs can enhance their positive impact on society by leveraging their influence with clients/investees to promote respect for human rights and enable access to remedy.

In this snapshot session, UNEP FI will outline key actions that the financial sector can take to advance human rights within their organizations. As part of this session, we are also proud to launch the Human Rights Resource Kit, which provides practical step-by-step guidance for banks on how to develop their own human rights policy, undertake human rights due diligence, develop effective grievance mechanisms, and enable access to remedy. The session will also highlight some examples of best practice and current trends in human rights within the financial sector arising from peer-led discussions within the UNEP FI Human Rights Community of Practice.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 12:15pm - 12:40pm CET
Room XXIV

12:45pm CET

Snapshot series on groups at risk: Realising a smart mix of measures for Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent in global supply chains - Dalits, Roma, Haratine, Quilombola and others.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 12:45pm - 1:10pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights, Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD) and International Dalit Solidarity Network (IDSN)

Across the globe, almost 270 million people are discriminated against, based on their present or ancestral occupation (work), descent or inherited status, such as caste. Collectively, they are known as Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent. Their marginalisation in political, social, and economic development is exacerbated further in the context of business activity intersecting with discrimination, leaving them powerless; vulnerable to bonded labour, modern slavery, child labour and hazardous work.

Due to its hidden nature, especially within the complex ecosystems of global supply chains many businesses, particularly those with a global footprint may not be fully aware of the extent to which discrimination based on work and descent influences their supply chains.

A smart mix of measures at national, international, voluntary, and mandatory levels aimed at addressing discrimination based on work and descent as part of broader human rights due diligence processes and just transition strategies must be prioritised.

Tuesday November 26, 2024 12:45pm - 1:10pm CET
Room XXIV

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: Academia
Tuesday November 26, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • Academia: Sharing research insights and theoretical perspectives on BHR developments.  

No interpretation will be provided. 


Tuesday November 26, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XIX

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: Business
Tuesday November 26, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • Business: Engaging in discussions on corporate responsibility, accountability, and sustainable practices. 

No interpretation will be provided. 


Tuesday November 26, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XX

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: Professional advisors
Tuesday November 26, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • Professional Advisors: Offering legal, financial, and ethical guidance on navigating BHR challenges. 

No interpretation will be provided. 


Tuesday November 26, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XXIV

3:00pm CET

Snapshots series on practical approaches and tools on HRDD for business: Building effective grievance mechanisms: implementing a mix of solutions across the business ecosystem
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:00pm - 3:25pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights and Löning – Human Rights & Responsible Business and Ulula (an EcoVadis company)

​An effective grievance mechanism is essential for companies, serving as an early warning system to identify and address risks before they escalate into larger issues. With increasing regulatory requirements and heightened societal expectations, companies are now obligated to create mechanisms that address concerns related to human rights and environmental matters. 

During this session, the speakers will explore the critical role of grievance mechanisms in corporate risk management, emphasising how collaboration strengthens two core elements: accessibility and effective case handling. Accessibility is not just about offering multiple channels—whether digital platforms, face-to-face meetings, or anonymous submissions—but also ensuring these channels are co-designed with input from all stakeholders. By working together, companies can create systems that meet the diverse needs of rights-holders and ensure grievances are captured and addressed in real time to foster greater transparency and trust with stakeholders.

Additionally, the session will tackle one of the most common challenges faced by companies: effective case handling. Companies need to allocate dedicated resources to manage grievances efficiently, but resolving these issues often requires more than internal efforts. By collaborating with external experts, local communities, and civil society organisations, companies can bring in the necessary expertise to resolve grievances in a timely and credible manner. A shared approach to case management ensures that grievances are not only acknowledged but resolved in ways that build long-term trust and accountability.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:00pm - 3:25pm CET
Room XXIV

3:00pm CET

Addressing Racism Online: A Smart Mix of Measures for Rights-Respecting Content Moderation
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on business and human rights and 7amleh. 

Interpretation in English, French and Spanish 

(Version française ci-jointe)
(Versión en español adjunta)


Brief description of the session:
 
From user-facing platforms to humanitarian tools and services, the tech sector, and in particular social media, has an ever-increasing impact on individuals and groups in the most vulnerable situations, including people of African descent and communities of colour. The failure to address the dissemination of hatred that incites discrimination on social media seriously undermines the promise of business and human rights - that is to provide a framework to prevent and remedy abuses by businesses, including tech companies, of internationally recognized human rights. Where online content moderation systems fail to effectively detect such content, it can risk increasing incitement to violence, and can hinder the enjoyment of a variety of human rights online and offline, including the right to life, the right to physical integrity, the right to health, freedom from non-discrimination,. As the Secretary General of the United Nations indicated in the organization’s Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech, hate speech is a menace to democratic values, social stability and peace. 

Regardless of investment and resources, social media companies face specific challenges in their content moderation efforts to mitigate the spread of such harmful content. Electronic communication services, social media platforms and search engines provide an ideal environment for the delivery of a range of narratives, including those that may constitute incitement to discrimination and violence.. Individuals or groups systematically targeted by incitement to violence or discrimination, including racist attacks, are generally left without any effective means of defense, escape or self-protection, and often find themselves in situations of enhanced vulnerability. There is an increasing recognition of the deep impact of such systemic oppressions on mental health. As various studies have shown, harassment alone in comparatively limited environments can expose targeted individuals to extremely elevated and prolonged levels of anxiety, stress, social isolation and depression and significantly increases the risk of suicide, which may amount to psychological torture. Broadly speaking, incitement to discrimination and/or violence, including on the basis of race, not only affects targeted groups of people, but exercises greater influence on society at large, exacerbating divisions,  fractures and strengthening polarization within society. The above-mentioned elements become more meaningful when we consider the rising importance that young people attach to cyberspace, and the latter's potential to influence their choices and values. In this context, this session will explore the potential of collaboration by different stakeholders to ensure a smart mix of measures that leads to a human rights-respecting approach in online content moderation for social media platforms. 

Key objectives of the session: 
  • Analyze current initiatives in the context of content moderation in relation to incitement to hatred and discrimination targeting people of African descent and ethnic and racial minorities on social media. 
  • Identify good practices and challenges, including a smart mix of measures to protect and respect human rights in the context of social media content moderation. 
  • Discuss concrete steps and actions that States, businesses, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders can and should take to implement the UNGPs for social media content moderation, and provide affected individuals and groups with effective access to remedy. 

Key discussion questions: 
  • What are the challenges for rights-respecting content moderation, especially in the Global South and in non-English speaking markets?  
  • How can social media companies mitigate potential adverse human rights impacts through rights-respecting content moderation and human rights due diligence processes?  
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Room XIX

3:00pm CET

Land Rights of Indigenous Peoples in the context of large-scale land acquisition
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights and the Indigenous Caucus 

Interpretation provided in English, Spanish and French.

Brief description of the session: 

Globally, there is rapid increase in the demand for land and its resources. Businesses, including investors, are pursuing large-scale land acquisition for economic projects related to  food, fuel, minerals, renewable energy,  and conservation and more.  However, transparency and participation are often lacking in these acquisition processes, enabled by poor or inexistent accountability mechanisms and legal frameworks to protect the rights holders, in particular Indigenous Peoples.
Indigenous Peoples make up more than 6% of the world’s population and hold an estimated 20% of the Earth’s land mass - one-half to one-third of the collectively-held land globally. However, they have formal legal ownership of less than 10% of this land. As a result, their lands are constantly under threat of unfair and forced acquisition for business investments, often leading to  serious abuses  of Indigenous Peoples '  rights  and those of their  defenders.
This session will engage relevant stakeholders in discussing how land acquisitions have been or should  be integrated into businesses human rights due diligence processes across their value chains. It will also explore the types of smart mix of measures that may help governments protect  Indigenous Peoples’ rights in the context of land acquisition, in particular with regard to the requirement to obtain a  Free, Prior and Informed Consent from the concerned Indigenous Peoples. .
Key objectives of the session:
 
  • To contextualize the growing trend of large-scale land acquisition for business activities, and their impacts on Indigenous Peoples ' rights.
  • To examine  practices and lessons learned regarding  different measures adopted by governments to protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples in the context of large-scale land acquisition.
  • To discuss  what kinds of a smart mix of measures could support the Free, Prior and Informed Consent from Indigenous Peoples with regard to land acquisition.
  • To discuss emerging practices from businesses, including investors,  to prevent, mitigate and account for adverse impacts of  land acquisitions on Indigenous Peoples rights, including the right of participation and FPIC.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Room XX

3:25pm CET

Snapshots series on practical approaches and tools on HRDD for business: Embedding effective governance into company structures: Focus on Measurement
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:25pm - 3:50pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights, and the Legal Innovation for Sustainable Investments Foundation (LISI)

For business to embrace HRDD and ensure effective stakeholder engagement, this needs to be translated into practical steps which can be taken by companies and protected by incorporation into legal structures, in a language which businesses can readily understand. This snapshot will focus on the work of (1) the Legal Innovation for Sustainable Investments (LISI) Foundation in creating an Impact Term Sheet, incorporating legal structures to embed stakeholder due diligence and ongoing consultation into company governance and an Impact Card, allowing businesses to understand how choices of different governance structures increase or decrease the potential for positive impacts and (2) Valuing Impact on integrating the value of human, social and natural capital into decision making, by providing innovative methods, data and experience. 

Relevant web pages: 
https://www.lisi-law.eu/impact-term-sheet
https://www.valuingnature.ch/
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:25pm - 3:50pm CET
Room XXIV

3:50pm CET

Snapshots series on practical approaches and tools on HRDD for business: Financial sector transparency: A mix of measures on inequalities and social-related issues
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:50pm - 4:15pm CET
On September 23, alongside the UN General Assembly and Climate Week, the Taskforce on Inequality and Social-related Financial Disclosures (TISFD) was officially launched. Four years in the making, the Taskforce is a global initiative to co-create, through inclusive governance and process, recommendations and guidance for businesses and financial institutions to understand and report on impacts, dependencies, risks, and opportunities related to people in order to incentivize business and financial practices that create fairer, stronger societies and economies. During this snapshot three Founding Partners will introduce the Taskforce, how it can contribute to the goals of the business and human rights movement, and opportunities for attendees to take part.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 3:50pm - 4:15pm CET
Room XXIV

4:20pm CET

Snapshots series on practical approaches and tools on HRDD for business: Unlocking Success: Crafting Transformational Business Models in a Smart Mix of Measures
Tuesday November 26, 2024 4:20pm - 4:45pm CET
There is an urgent need to develop more sustainable business practices. To achieve this, we need to identify not only where business is currently falling short, but also provide evidence for how specific responsible business approaches that encapsulate HREDD can create positive impact at the scale required to ensure just transitions. This snapshot will focus on an innovative and adaptive business model that aims to disrupt the traditionally obscure diamond supply chain. HB Antwerp, and its subsidiary HB Botswana, employ a business model that is focused on providing radical transparency of the diamond production process with reliance on technological innovations and knowledge transfer to build local capacity.
 
Relevant web page:
https://www.humanrights.unsw.edu.au/research/current-research/transforming-business-practices-global-supply-chains
 
Tuesday November 26, 2024 4:20pm - 4:45pm CET
Room XXIV

4:40pm CET

Enforcing effective remedy and a smart mix of measures
Tuesday November 26, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights, IndustriALL, OECD Watch, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) & German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) & German Federal Ministry for Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS)

Interpretation provided in English, Spanish and French.

Brief description of the session: 
The UNGPs emphasize that access to effective remedy for business-related human rights abuses should be enabled through a remedy ecosystem involving complementary State-based judicial mechanisms, State-based non-judicial grievance mechanisms, and non-State-based grievance mechanisms to ensure the best possible outcomes for rightsholders. Guiding Principle 25 lays out that States must take appropriate steps, through judicial, administrative, legislative and other means to ensure that those affected by business-related impacts have access to effective remedies. Furthermore, Guiding Principle 31 sets out the criteria of effectiveness for non-judicial grievance mechanisms to be effective. A key element of effective remedy is the centrality of rights holders and assurance of victims’ own satisfaction with the remedial mechanism and remedy provided.
This session will discuss different types of grievance mechanisms based on experiences from across regions, including state-based and non-state based mechanisms; those based on binding or non-binding regulations; and enforceable and non-enforceable mechanisms. Panelists and the audience will collectively evaluate whether they facilitate effective remedy for victims and reflect on the core strengths of the various approaches.
The session will identify the practices of remedial mechanisms necessary to ensure effective remedy and accountability for corporate impacts. The session will also consider how various paths to remedy can complement each other to give rights holders choice in obtaining a bouquet of remedies suited to the unique circumstances of their case.  

Key objectives of the session:
Provide examples of different grievance mechanisms and cases of successful and unsuccessful remediation to highlight best and less good practice.
Debate whether a smart mix of measures support an effective remedy for victims.
Discuss how the nature of the mechanisms and of outcomes, including in terms of enforceability enable effective remedies for rights holders.
Identify key objective elements needed to ensure victims can access effective remedies, based on practical cases.

Key questions : 
What barriers to effective remedy hinder access through courts and how can these be overcome, including during development of new judicial paths under due diligence and similar legislation?
What elements of internal or cross-company grievance mechanisms are key to ensure victims access to effective remedies?
What benefits can non-judicial grievance mechanisms bring to facilitate access to effective remedies and upon which conditions?
How should companies’ implementation of remedies be enforced and monitored?
What can states do to overcome power imbalances between companies and vulnerable communities seeking remedies?

Background of the discussion:
Binding measures, such as laws, regulations, and judicial processes, can be essential for establishing a strong foundation for accountability, while accountability can also be established by voluntary measures (or grievance mechanisms) in a dialogue-based approach based on binding foundations, or accompanied with sanctions or a rigorous follow up. Indeed, decisions of NHRI, NCP or internal or cross-company grievance mechanisms can bring about significant outcomes for victims in terms of reparation, with victims at the centre. These voluntary mechanisms can be especially important in contexts where legal systems are slow, judicial mechanisms hardly accessible, giving rights holders alternative routes to remedy.

Key background materials
Enhancing the effectiveness of non-State-based grievance mechanisms, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Enhancing the effectiveness of State-based non-judicial mechanisms, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Enhancing the effectiveness of judicial mechanisms
Report on access to effective remedy for business-related human rights abuses (A/72/162), UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights
Speakers
avatar for Damilola Olawuyi

Damilola Olawuyi

member, UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights
Damilola S. Olawuyi is a Professor and UNESCO Chair on Environmental Law and Sustainable Development at the Hamad Bin Khalifa University in Qatar. He is also the director of the Institute for Oil, Gas, Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development at the Afe Babalola University... Read More →
MM

Mustapha Mahamah

Legal Officer, Advocates Alternatives
avatar for Christina Hajagos-Clausen

Christina Hajagos-Clausen

Textile and Garment Global Director, IndustriALL
Tuesday November 26, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Room XX

4:40pm CET

Latin America and the Caribbean regional session*
Tuesday November 26, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Tuesday November 26, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Room XIX

4:45pm CET

Snapshots series on practical approaches and tools on HRDD for business: Safeguarding Human Rights: A Strategic Approach Through Due Diligence in Renewable Energy Projects
Tuesday November 26, 2024 4:45pm - 5:10pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights and Statkraft  

"Safeguarding Human Rights: A Strategic Approach Through Due Diligence in Renewable Energy Projects" focuses on the integration of human rights due diligence in the renewable energy sector, particularly in regions with complex labor markets and inadequate worker protections. The session will explore how a strategic mix of regulatory mandates, CSR initiatives, and voluntary frameworks like the UNGP can help mitigate human rights impacts, especially on vulnerable communities such as migrant workers and indigenous peoples. By examining the challenges and efficacy of these measures during project planning and execution, the session aims to highlight the importance of accountability, transparency, and collaboration in upholding human rights standards throughout the project's lifecycle.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 4:45pm - 5:10pm CET
Room XXIV

5:10pm CET

Snapshots series on practical approaches and tools on HRDD for business: The European Model Clauses and Responsible Contracting in Supply Chains
Tuesday November 26, 2024 5:10pm - 5:35pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV

The Zero Draft of European Model Clauses has gone into worldwide consultation in July 2024. These model clauses are aligned with the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), OECD Guidelines and UNGPs and aim to introduce responsible contracting practices in supply chains. This development is also relevant as Article 18 CSDDD prompts the European Commission to develop guidance on model clauses. Whereas contracts are an important means to implement human rights compliance in a legally binding fashion in supply chains, they are an indispensable part of due diligence. However, the current contractual practices in many cases exacerbate human rights impact instead of improving the situation. Therefore, responsible contracting practices should be implemented. In this session the European Model Clauses and their objective to implement responsible contracting practices are introduced as well as the context of the CSDDD in which contracts play an important role.

Background information
The Zero Draft, an introduction and a commentary to the clauses (with general commentary explaining specific Articles, practical guidance on implementation and member state specific observations regarding the Articles) may be accessed at https://www.responsiblecontracting.org/emcs. This site may be referred to for background information.
Tuesday November 26, 2024 5:10pm - 5:35pm CET
Room XXIV

5:35pm CET

 
Wednesday, November 27
 

9:00am CET

BHR informal dialogues: Intergenerational Exchange on Business and Human Rights
Wednesday November 27, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
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.

Topics for Discussion: The BHR Informal Dialogues will focus on a range of pressing topics, including:
  • Intergenerational Exchange on BHR: Promoting dialogue between different generations on the evolving BHR landscape and priorities.

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.
Wednesday November 27, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
Room XX

9:00am CET

BHR informal dialogues: Responsible Investment
Wednesday November 27, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
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.

Topics for Discussion: The BHR Informal Dialogues will focus on a range of pressing topics, including:
  • Responsible Investment: Examining the impact of investment on human rights and business practices.
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.
Wednesday November 27, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
Room XIX

9:00am CET

BHR informal dialogues: State-Business Nexus
Wednesday November 27, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
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.

Topics for Discussion: The BHR Informal Dialogues will focus on a range of pressing topics, including:
  • State-Business Nexus: Addressing the intersection between public policy and private enterprise, particularly in terms of human rights obligations.
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.
Wednesday November 27, 2024 9:00am - 9:40am CET
Room XXIV

10:00am CET

10:00am CET

Procurement and Deployment of Artificial Intelligence and the UNGPs: Consultation for the Working Group’s 2025 Report to the Human Rights Council
Wednesday November 27, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
 
Session organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights 
 
Brief description of the session: 

The Working Group on Business and Human Rights will present a report to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2025. The report will seek to identify current strategies, policies, and practices, and remaining gaps and challenges to address adverse human rights impacts linked to the procurement and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) systems by States and non-tech businesses.

The report aims to clarify the respective duty and responsibility of States and non-tech businesses to protect and respect human rights, as well as the roles of other relevant stakeholders, including civil society, human rights defenders, academia, trade unions and national human rights institutions, in the context of the evolving landscape of AI procurement and deployment. As the report focuses on the procurement and deployment of AI systems by States and non tech business enterprises, therefore it does not cover issues related States developing and deploying their own AI systems, and related to tech business enterprises developing and deploying AI systems.
It seeks to explore the following items:
how States can further enhance efforts to safeguard human rights when procuring and deploying AI systems;
how non-tech businesses can further incorporate human rights focus in their deployment of AI in their business operations, products and services, including though comprehensive and robust human rights due diligence processes;
what grievance mechanisms exist for rightsholders that have been affected by AI procured by States or businesses, and how they can be strengthened; and
the essential role of human rights defenders to support States and businesses in identifying human rights risks and preventing harm in this context.

Key objectives of the session:

  • Identify key issues, actors, practices and trends that should be covered in the Working Group’s report to the Human Rights Council;
  • Highlight promising policies, frameworks or regulations at the national, regional and international levels to address the human rights risks linked to the procurement and deployment of AI by States and non tech-businesses;
  • Share emerging practices of non-tech business in including human rights impacts related to the procurement and deployment of AI systems in their human rights due diligence;
  • Highlight key issues and challenges that are faced by CSOs, human rights defenders and workers in the context of AI systems deployed by States and non-tech businesses;
  • Discuss what effective remedies are available for those whose human rights are adversely affected by AI applications used by States and non tech businesses .

Background of the discussion:
Speakers
avatar for Lyra Jakuleviciene

Lyra Jakuleviciene

Vice-chairperson, UN Working Group on business and human rights
Ms. Lyra Jakulevičienė is an international legal scholar specialising in international and European Union law, human rights law in particular, for more than two decades. She is a Professor and the Dean of the Law School of Mykolas Romeris University in Lithuania. She has extensive... Read More →
Wednesday November 27, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Room XX

10:00am CET

Progress and Opportunities to Strengthen BHR in the Middle East and North Africa Region
Wednesday November 27, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Session organized by the Working Group on business and human rights
  
Interpretation in English, Arabic and French 

(Version française ci-jointe)

Brief description of the session: 
The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) have gained increased recognition among various stakeholders in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, including governments, businesses, national human rights institutions (NHRIs), civil society actors, academia and the legal community. However, despite the growing awareness, there are significant challenges in translating the UNGPs into effective frameworks for protecting and addressing human rights and environmental issues in the region. 

This session will build upon the discussions from the past two annual forums to delve into the progress that has been achieved in advancing the business and human rights agenda, and to identify areas where further progress is needed and where gaps in protection persist. The session will also examine the implementation of the UNGPs, with a particular emphasis on a smart mix of measures to strengthen business and human rights in the MENA region. 

Key objectives of the session: 
  • Examine the utilization of the UNGPs to enhance human rights in the MENA region. 
  • Identify obstacles, drivers, and priorities crucial for realizing the UNGPs in the MENA region. 
  • Discuss practical measures to raise awareness and promote the implementation of the UNGPs throughout the MENA region.  
  • Explore strategies for enhancing the capacities of all stakeholders to effectively leverage the UNGPs as a tool for States and businesses to fulfil their respective duties and responsibilities to protect and respect human rights and the environment. 
  • Emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders to advance the UNGPs. 

Key discussion questions: 
  • What are the primary drivers and priorities that must be addressed to fully realize the UNGPs in the MENA region? 
  • How can a smart mix of measures assist businesses in identifying and mitigating human rights risks across their operations and supply chains?  
  • What valuable insights can be learned from the progress made in advancing the implementation of the UNGPs in the MENA region, and how can these lessons guide future efforts?  

Wednesday November 27, 2024 10:00am - 11:20am CET
Room XIX

10:25am CET

Snapshot series on stakeholder engagement: Access to effective remedy for migrant workers in Europe
Wednesday November 27, 2024 10:25am - 10:50am CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business, the European Institute for Crime Prevention and Control, affiliated with the UN (HEUNI) and Coretta & Martin Luther King Institute for Peace 

This snapshot session focuses on migrant workers’ access to effective remedy in Europe, more specifically in the Nordic countries and the Baltic Sea region, discussing if and how migrant workers, who have been exploited at work, have access to effective remedy for the harm they have suffered. Migrant workers may face structural and practical barriers in accessing remedy, including lack of information about grievance mechanisms and rights, and lack of access to legal aid or other support. Well-functioning grievance mechanisms that allow for access to effective remedy may also not exist. Based on recent research findings, this session highlights the gaps in migrant workers’ access to effective remedy and discusses how to engage with key stakeholders to address these barriers in local remedy ecosystems. It presents concrete examples of stakeholder engagement that have facilitated access to effective remedy.
Key objectives:
  • Address challenges and practical barriers migrant workers face in accessing remedy in the Nordic countries and the Baltic Sea region.
  • Discuss how stakeholders can work together to tighten gaps along different levels of the supply chains to improve access to effective remedy.
  • Emphasize the role of civil society actors in conjunction with all the other actors involved in the abuse-remedy cycle.
  • Address what is needed to move a smart mix of measures from theory to practice to achieve better outcomes.
  • Showcase good examples to improve migrant workers’ access to effective remedy in the Nordic countries and the Baltic Sea region based on recent research.
Wednesday November 27, 2024 10:25am - 10:50am CET
Room XXIV

10:55am CET

Snapshot series on stakeholder engagement: Combatting child labour in agriculture through multi-stakeholder engagement
Wednesday November 27, 2024 10:55am - 11:20am CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights, ECLT Foundation and Better Cotton 

Summary
In the agricultural sector, farmers and workers, including children face systemic human rights challenges. In response, companies, governments and multi-stakeholder initiatives (MSIs) are collaborating to develop and implement a smart mix of measures to address them.
In this session, the ECLT Foundation and Better Cotton will share their insights as MSIs involved in developing and implementing a smart mix of measures in agriculture across various contexts and geographies.

Objectives of the session
  • Explore the roles that companies, governments, and civil society can play in addressing the root causes of human rights challenges for a meaningful, sustainable change.
  • Assess the landscape for collaboration among MSIs aiming to advance human rights due diligence in agriculture.

Wednesday November 27, 2024 10:55am - 11:20am CET
Room XXIV

11:20am CET

11:40am CET

Harnessing a “smart mix of measures” to protect and respect the rights of LGBTI+ persons in business activities
Wednesday November 27, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on business and human rights, ILGA World and PGLE


Brief Description of the Session:

LGBTI+ persons are disproportionately affected by business activities, facing discrimination and violence that impact their rights to equality and non-discrimination and lead to compounding violations of other human rights. Discrimination and attacks occur in various forms, including harassment in the workplace, stigmatization on social media, biased representation in advertising, and exclusion in sports. These risks are exacerbated by intersectional discrimination involving factors such as race, ethnicity, disability, age, migratory status, and more. Hostile cultural, social, and legal environments further restrict the corporate respect for human rights of LGBTI+ persons.

This session will explore different measures implemented by States, businesses and other stakeholders to address gaps in protecting and respecting the rights of LGBTI+ persons in the context of business activities. Drawing on the recent report to the General Assembly by the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights, titled “Protecting and respecting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons in the context of business activities: fulfilling obligations and responsibilities under the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights”, the session aims to identify effective strategies and share good practices in this field by fostering dialogue among diverse stakeholders.

Key Specific Objectives of the Session:

· Identify the key challenges for the respect of LGBTI+ rights in the context of business activities.
· Discuss the "smart mix of measures" necessary from States to adequately protect the rights of LGBTI+ persons against business abuses, highlighting emerging regulatory initiatives, policies and adjudications at the national, regional, and international levels.
· Exchange on business actions to prevent and redress human rights abuses against LGBTI+ persons in the workplace, marketplace, supply chain and communities where they operate, including when operating in jurisdictions that criminalize consensual same sex relationships.
· Explore how meaningful engagement with LGBTI+ persons, organisations defending LGBTI+ rights, and trade unions can be fostered to enhance the respect of the rights of LGBTI+ persons.
· Promote collaboration among stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society, and LGBTI+ persons.

Key Discussion Questions:
1. What are the most pressing challenges faced by LGBTI+ persons in the context of business activities?
2. What measures should States take to include consideration on LGBTI+ persons in NAP, mandatory human rights due diligence and to repel or amend any regulations that would hamper business respect of the rights of LGBTI+ persons?
3. How does policy coherence look like with regards to guaranteeing the rights of all in the context of business activities?
4. How could the UN Standards of Conduct for Business in Tackling Discrimination Against LGBTI People be effectively implemented to guide businesses in progressing beyond merely respecting the rights of their LGBTI employees in countries with established legal protections, to actively promoting and defending these rights in regions where such protections are limited or non-existent?
5. How could businesses address backlashes and legal risks when respecting the rights of LGBTI+ persons in their operations and value chains?
6. How can State-based judicial and non-judicial mechanisms, as well as operational-level grievance mechanisms be strengthened to address rights violations against LGBTI+ persons?
7. What role can stakeholders play in fostering collaboration and sharing good practices to advance LGBTI+ rights in the business sector?

Background reading:
· Protecting and respecting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons in the context of business activities: fulfilling obligations and responsibilities under the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights –Working Group report A/79/178
· UN Standards of Conduct for Business Tackling Discrimination Against Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, & Intersex People, · Gender Dimensions of the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights – Working Group report A/HRC/41/43

Wednesday November 27, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Room XX

11:40am CET

“Smart Mix” in Action: Progress and Opportunities for Advancing Business and Human Rights in Africa
Wednesday November 27, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES)


Description of the session:
The “smart mix of measures” – national, international, voluntary and mandatory – has been central to the realization of the UN Guiding principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). Already into the second decade of implementation of the UNGPs, this is an appropriate moment to reflect on what the “smart mix of measures” means for the African continent now and into the future.
Increased foreign direct and local investments in key sectors in Africa, including infrastructure development, extractive industries, agriculture, natural resource exploitation and manufacturing, highlights the need to build capacities and strengthen regulatory frameworks promoting and protecting human rights in the context of business activities in Africa.
States in the African continent are increasingly taking action to address the adverse impacts of business activities on people and the environment. Recent developments at national level, including through the adoption of national action plans on business and human rights, as well as sector-specific legislation on issues of business and human rights such as on labour rights, non-discrimination, environment, land, anti-corruption and privacy, show that action is possible in all these areas, and that government leadership from the top is a critical factor.
With the adoption of new regulation at international and regional level, such as EU regulations, particularly the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), as well as national human rights due diligence requirements in countries like France and Germany, States and businesses in Africa are facing new expectations. The session will discuss the key notion of “smart mix of measures” and what its realization means concretely in and for African countries and actors. It will also consider the importance for African Governments, businesses, communities and rightsholders to understand implications and opportunities arising from such regulatory developments as drivers for strengthening business respect for human rights.
The fundamental challenge going forward is to scale up the good practices that are emerging and address remaining gaps and challenges in the continent. This will require concerted efforts by all actors and meaningful stakeholders’ engagement.
This session will offer participants a multi-stakeholder platform to explore the specific application and implementation of a “smart mix” of measures to promote and implement the UNGPs in Africa, and to further invigorate emphasis on collaborative efforts to advance business respect for human rights and to strengthen access to effective remedy when harm happens.

Session objectives:
  • Identify positive practice, gaps and challenges in existing laws, policies and current business and government practice;
  • Develop practical pathways for how the UNGPs as a policy and normative framework can be better leveraged to bring States, businesses, and civil society together and generate sustainable and inclusive solutions to address business-related human rights challenges in Africa;
  • Highlight emerging good practices; and how key stakeholders — States, businesses, NHRIs, civil society organizations, trade unions and the investment community— can contribute to the scaling-up effective human rights due diligence processes, including through a rights-holder’s centred approach and meaningful, inclusive, and effective multi-stakeholder engagement;
  • Discuss the anticipated implications of international, regional and national regulatory developments and what it is needed from States and businesses in the region to ensure that legal developments in other regions result in positive outcomes for stakeholders in Africa;
  • Identify measures to strengthen policy coherence when setting and developing policy and regulation.
Wednesday November 27, 2024 11:40am - 1:00pm CET
Room XIX

11:50am CET

Snapshot series on stakeholder engagement: Beyond ‘do no harm’ to shared prosperity: using a “smart mix” of measures to ensure a fast and fair energy transition
Wednesday November 27, 2024 11:50am - 12:15pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights and the Business & Human Rights Resource Center

Climate change is both a growing catastrophe and an enormous opportunity for the world. It requires a rapid, global energy transition. The speed of the shift will depend on the scale and scope of investment available. But it will also depend on building broad public support, and particularly from those directly affected by renewable mega-projects and the vast new transition mineral operations essential to powering them. Replicating abuses of the traditional extractive sector risks further entrenching power inequalities between workers and frontline communities – many of which are Indigenous Peoples – and companies, threatening the transition as a whole, as rightsholders increasingly reject abuse and unfair terms.
A smart mix of measures – national, international, voluntary and mandatory – can mitigate these risks and provide pathways to a just energy transition grounded in a corporate duty of care for human rights, fair negotiations, and commitment by business, investors, and governments to true shared prosperity. The mix includes:
  • New regulatory advancements and guidelines demanding human rights due diligence and increased corporate accountability from regions as diverse as Latin America, Asia, and the EU.
  • A limited – but growing – set of examples of better business and investor practice reflecting commitment to an equitable, sustainable and inclusive transition that respects rights and prioritises shared benefits.
  • The informed and assertive role of trade unions, workers’ organisations and Indigenous Peoples’ organisations and communities to achieve fair outcomes to negotiations.
The discussion will seek to highlight the smart mix strategies necessary to deliver a fast and fair transition and a new social contract.
Wednesday November 27, 2024 11:50am - 12:15pm CET
Room XXIV

12:15pm CET

Snapshot series on stakeholder engagement: Fourth Pillar Initiative – Centering Communities in BHR
Wednesday November 27, 2024 12:15pm - 12:40pm CET
Snapshot co-organized by the Working Group on Business and Human Rights and the Human Rights Entrepreneurs Clinic, Harvard Law School

This snapshot session will explore the content and application of the “Fourth Pillar,” an initiative which aims to center communities in the field of BHR. Despite the growth in the BHR field in recent years, communities are still too often missing from key conversations and decisions. Communities should be able to claim their place at the table, as they have first-hand understanding of what threatens their rights and have much to contribute to frameworks, processes, and practices that would better protect them. The Fourth Pillar Principles include the need to elevate community agency and tackle power imbalances that undermine communities’ rights. The Fourth Pillar Initiative seeks to have the Principles spur further action and innovation in the BHR field, adding to the “smart mix of measures” for businesses, states, civil society, and communities.

A full version of the Fourth Pillar Principles can be found at www.fourthpillarinitiative.com.


Wednesday November 27, 2024 12:15pm - 12:40pm CET
Room XXIV

12:45pm CET

Snapshot series on stakeholder engagement
Wednesday November 27, 2024 12:45pm - 1:10pm CET
Wednesday November 27, 2024 12:45pm - 1:10pm CET
Room XXIV

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: Government representatives
Wednesday November 27, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • Government Representatives: Discussing the role of public policy, regulation, and enforcement in promoting BHR.  

No interpretation will be provided. 


Wednesday November 27, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XX

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: Indigenous Peoples
Wednesday November 27, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • Indigenous Peoples: Highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities related to Indigenous Peoples’ rights in business operations. 

No interpretation will be provided. 


Wednesday November 27, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XIX

1:20pm CET

Networking hubs: National Human Rights Institutions
Wednesday November 27, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
The Networking Hubs will provide an open platform designed to facilitate exchanges among diverse groups of stakeholders on the Business and Human Rights (BHR) agenda. These spaces are structured to encourage autonomous, participant-led conversations without formal speakers or panelists, fostering a free-flowing exchange of experiences and perspectives. The aim is to create a collaborative peer learning space within stakeholders, where each stakeholder group can directly engage with one another, fostering meaningful dialogue. 

The format of these spaces leverages the networking essence of the Forum, offering a flexible and open environment for different stakeholder groups to share best practices, challenges, and innovative proposals.  

Stakeholder groupsThe Networking Hubs will focus on a range of pressing topics, including: 
  • National Human Rights Institutions: Sharing experiences in monitoring and promoting human rights within business  

No interpretation will be provided. 


Wednesday November 27, 2024 1:20pm - 2:40pm CET
Room XXIV

3:00pm CET

Snapshot series on other relevant topics of the BHR agenda: Smart-Mix Approaches to Business and Human Rights Education
Wednesday November 27, 2024 3:00pm - 3:25pm CET
The intersection of business activities and human rights presents a critical area for scholarly exploration and policy development. Recognizing the importance of promoting responsible business practices, protecting human rights, and fostering expertise in this field, this panel aims to establish a multisectoral platform for advancing Business and Human Rights (BHRs) education and capacity development. Furthermore, bolstering the capacity for implementing BHRs scholarship and education necessitates educational institutions to develop customized courses that offer practical, skill-based learning utilizing a diverse array of online and traditional classroom resources. Conventional human rights programs typically lack the depth required to delve into the complexities of BHRs as a unique and interdisciplinary field of study. Thus, what are the BHRs education needs of stakeholders in business, government, civil society and industry associations, and how can educators effectively meet such needs through innovative pedagogy that emphasize the smart mix of measures?
Wednesday November 27, 2024 3:00pm - 3:25pm CET
Room XXIV

3:00pm CET

Transforming BHR Commitments into Change through Youth-Driven Initiatives
Wednesday November 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on business and human rights and Ubuntu Development Network.

Interpretation available in English, French, Spanish, Chinese, Russian and Arabic

(Version française ci-jointe)
(Versión en español adjunta)
 


Brief description of the session: 
This session aims to assess the role of youth-driven initiatives in bringing about real transformations through a smart mix of business and human rights measures. It will serve as a critical platform for sharing stories and examples of positive change related to business and human rights spearheaded by youth, assessing the effectiveness of these changes, especially for rights-holders, and identifying ongoing challenges. Additionally, the session will address various focused issues such as climate change and gender. Emerging and other systemic issues confronting the youth in the business and human rights agenda will also be discussed, linking the discussion to the overarching theme of transforming commitments into tangible change through youth-driven initiatives.  

Key objectives of the session: 
  • Discuss how to empower youth in understanding and actively participating in the global business and human rights discourse by addressing barriers to comprehensive knowledge acquisition and presenting practical opportunities for engagement.  
  • Highlight youth perspectives and practices in responsible consumerism, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development, showcasing successful youth-driven business models. 
  • Discuss strategies to amplify youth voices and foster collaboration for effective change in responsible business conduct. 

Key discussion questions: 
  • As young people, what challenges and opportunities have you faced with regard to advancing the business and human rights agenda, including any barriers to business and human rights knowledge? 
  • How have responsible business models and strategies driven by youth helped to foster awareness, engagement, and collaboration in BHR policy development and practice? 
  • What strategies can amplify youth voices and participation as levers of effective change in advancing responsible business conduct across different communities, regions, and sectors? 

 
Additional background documents: 
Wednesday November 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Room XX

3:00pm CET

Key developments in the WEOG region over the past year
Wednesday November 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Session co-organized by the Working Group on business and human rights and the Danish Institute for Human Rights

Interpretation in English, Arabic and French 

Brief description of the session:
This session will consider the issues pertinent to the business and human rights agenda across WEOG States. This includes the development by some States of second, or reviewed, National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights. Due to the significant developments at the EU level during 2024, and the impacts beyond the EU, there will be a special focus on mandatory human rights due diligence and the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (Directive 2024/1760 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1760/oj) which entered into force on 25 July 2024.

The aim of the EU Directive “is to foster sustainable and responsible corporate behaviour in companies’ operations and across their global value chains. The new rules will ensure that companies in scope identify and address adverse human rights and environmental impacts of their actions inside and outside Europe” (https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/doing-business-eu/sustainability-due-diligence-responsible-business/corporate-sustainability-due-diligence_en). The Working Group conducted advocacy on the Directive, including in its statement of 7 February 2024 (https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/issues/business/workinggroupbusiness/20240207-Corporate-Sustainability-Due-Diligence-Directive.pdf). The Working Group’s advocacy was conducted alongside that of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2024/02/un-human-rights-chief-urges-eu-leaders-approve-key-business-and-human-rights). This outreach sent a strong message on the need for regulation at the European level.

The session will consider the lessons learned from efforts by governments and regional entities to drive greater policy coherence on the business and human rights agenda through regulation. It will discuss how to scale up the implementation by business enterprises of the corporate responsibility to respect human rights. It will examine how to ensure that compliance with legislation by businesses does not become a formulaic “tick the box” exercise. The session will also examine some good practices followed by businesses when undertaking human rights due diligence, for example in contractual provisions in contracts along their value chains and in stakeholder engagement.

Key objectives of the session:
  1. Consider developments within the WEOG region, including the development of revised National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights;
  2. Clarify the key provisions of the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and consider how States and businesses are responding;
  3. Consider what new causes of action may arise from the Directive and what remedies might be available; and
  4. Clarify what effectiveness of these pieces of legislation means for the different stakeholders.

Key discussion questions: 
  1. What needs to happen in the WEOG region in terms of policy and legislation to further develop the business and human rights agenda? What role is played by National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights in this regard?
  1. What can be learned from the processes followed during the drafting and negotiation of the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive?
  1. What factors should all stakeholders consider when contemplating drafting legislation on mandatory human rights due diligence and other regulation relevant to the business and human rights agenda?
 
Background reading: 
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1760/oj

https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/doing-business-eu/sustainability-due-diligence-responsible-business/corporate-sustainability-due-diligence_en

https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/issues/business/workinggroupbusiness/20240207-Corporate-Sustainability-Due-Diligence-Directive.pdf

https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2024/02/un-human-rights-chief-urges-eu-leaders-approve-key-business-and-human-rights

“Supporting the implementation of the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive in global supply chains involving smallholders and their communities” https://fairtrade-advocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/CSDDD_Accompanying-Measures.pdf


Wednesday November 27, 2024 3:00pm - 4:20pm CET
Room XIX

3:30pm CET

Snapshot series on other relevant topics of the BHR agenda: Litigating Business and Human Rights
Wednesday November 27, 2024 3:30pm - 3:55pm CET
The “Litigating Business & Human Rights” snapshot will feature an engaging and dynamic conversation between Deborah Enix-Ross, Senior Advisor for Global Engagement at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, and past-President of the American Bar Association, and Daisuke Takahashi, Partner at Shinwa Law, Co-Chair of the International Bar Association’s Business & Human Rights Committee, and Representative Director of the Japan Center for Engagement and Remedy on Business and Human Rights. Deborah and Daisuke will discuss the role of litigation in the “smart mix” of judicial and non-judicial mechanisms in the enforcement of business and human rights. Speakers will focus on the advantages and limitations of litigation, the challenges of achieving meaningful remedy, the function of lawyers in business and human rights litigation, and the role of the UNGPs and the draft treaty in litigating business and human rights.
Wednesday November 27, 2024 3:30pm - 3:55pm CET
Room XXIV

4:00pm CET

Snapshot series on other relevant topics of the BHR agenda: Human Rights Due Diligence at Mega-Sporting Events: from Policies to Practices to Remedy
Wednesday November 27, 2024 4:00pm - 4:25pm CET
In the past decade, the UNGPs became the authoritative framework in the world of sport, in particular for organizing and staging mega-sporting events (MSEs), like the Olympic and Paralympic Games, or world or regional championships of a specific sport. A smart mix of human rights policies, requirements and provisions in hosting regulations and contracts, and human rights strategies, working groups, advisory boards, and guidances are currently in place, issued by sports bodies, governments and international organizations.

While there has been a strong increase in human rights standards, the information on the way these standards are being enforced is just emerging. This snapshot session reflects on the effectiveness of human rights due diligence measures that were implemented for UEFA’s EURO 2024 that took place in Germany in the summer of this year, with a specific focus on the Human Rights Advisory Board and grievance mechanism that UEFA and the event organizers established. A conversation between members of the board and representatives of UEFA will highlight some of the challenges and lessons learned regarding human rights due diligence for mega-sporting events.
Wednesday November 27, 2024 4:00pm - 4:25pm CET
Room XXIV

4:40pm CET

Closing plenary
Wednesday November 27, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Wednesday November 27, 2024 4:40pm - 6:00pm CET
Room XX
 
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.