BSR Insight | Human Rights and Public Policy
The recently introduced Congo Conflict Minerals Act, a proposed U.S. law aimed at increasing transparency in the sourcing of minerals tied to civil war and used in many electronics, is the latest sign of renewed government interest in business and human rights. Human rights challenges for companies typically emerge when governments fail to fulfill their duty to protect their citizens’ rights, either willfully or for lack of resources. To help close these governance gaps, responsible public policy should be a key component of every company’s human rights strategy. BSR recommends that companies take the following steps:
- Raise awareness for human rights by publicly stating a commitment to respect all human rights.
- Educate key policymakers about the human rights challenges and opportunities companies encounter.
- Incorporate human rights issues into public policy and lobbying efforts, including within industry associations.
- Seek effective partnerships with government to jointly develop and implement solutions to key human rights challenges.
About the Author(s)
Faris Natour, Director, Human Rights
Faris leads BSR’s human rights practice, advising companies on human rights strategy, policy development, human rights impact assessments, and other elements of human rights due diligence... Read more →
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