Why Businesses Must Champion Human Rights

Reputation on the Line:

Consumers today are savvy and informed. They research a company’s ethics before making purchases. News of human rights violations associated with a brand can spread like wildfire on social media, leading to boycotts and irreparable reputational damage. Conversely, a company with a strong human rights record attracts positive media attention, fosters customer loyalty, and builds trust.

The Business Case for Human Rights:

Beyond reputation, respecting human rights can directly benefit a company’s bottom line. Here’s how:

• Reduced Risk: Proactive human rights due diligence helps identify and mitigate risks associated with labor violations, discrimination, and unsafe working conditions. This translates to fewer disruptions, legal issues, and fines.
• Enhanced Productivity: Happy and respected employees are more productive and engaged. Investing in fair wages, training, and worker well-being leads to a more stable and motivated workforce.
• Stronger Supply Chains: By ensuring ethical sourcing practices throughout the supply chain, businesses can avoid disruptions and negative publicity associated with human rights abuses by suppliers.

The UN Guiding Principles and EU Due Diligence Regulation: Recognizing the importance of business involvement, the UN developed the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). These principles provide a framework for businesses to prevent, address, and remedy human rights impacts throughout their operations.

Similarly, the European Union is taking a proactive stance. The upcoming EU Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence will require companies to identify, prevent, mitigate, and account for human rights and environmental impacts throughout their value chains. This will raise the bar for responsible business conduct globally.

Taking Action: Businesses can champion human rights by:

• Conducting human rights due diligence. This involves assessing potential and actual human rights impacts across operations and supply chains.
• Developing a human rights policy. This policy should clearly outline the company’s commitment to human rights and its approach to addressing potential issues.
• Engaging with stakeholders. Maintain open communication with employees, communities, and NGOs to identify and address concerns.

Conclusion: Respecting human rights is not just the right thing to do; it’s good business. By prioritizing human rights,companies can build trust, enhance their reputation, and secure a sustainable future. With the UNGPs and the EU regulations setting a clear direction, businesses that embrace human rights due diligence will be well-positioned to thrive in the years to come. 

We, as Foodfinderz, are committed to Due Diligence on Human Rights and will strive to encourage our staff, suppliers and partners to do the same.