Approach
The narrative of human rights cuts across, economic, social, gender and climate justice. Our human rights based approach prompts deeper analysis of the structural causes and abuses of power obstructing human rights, both in the public and private sector. Entrenched economic inequalities are often rooted in (post) colonial exploitation, racism and gender disparities. Human rights are non-negotiable entitlements of every human being. Our approach is built on principles of equality, and dignity, empowering people to hold governments and companies to account for realizing human rights.
States have the obligation to respect, protect and fulfill human rights. They have committed to take steps, to the maximum of their available resources, to progressively achieve the full realization of human rights by all appropriate means. This is enshrined in many international agreements, conventions, constitutions and national laws, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement. And yet, as duty bearers, states provide insufficient resources to finance their commitments and realize rights. In democratic societies, states can be held accountable and the judiciary can enforce governments to provide the means to advance human rights. We empower organizations and movements who influence public policies to realize rights.
Business conduct can result in serious human rights violations and have adverse social and environmental impacts, exacerbating poverty and inequality. Our human rights-based approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR) helps companies to fundamentally redefine their role in society, establishing strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies and practices. This requires companies to adhere to international business and human rights principles, standards, and sustainability initiatives, going beyond compliance to national laws and regulations only. We support companies to uphold human rights standards across their business operations.