Towards a common vision to implement the UNGP on Business and Human Rights in the ASEAN

While globalization aids economic progress, human rights become an intensifying concern in relation to increasing business operations. Hence, a UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs)Framework was launched to clarify the responsibilities of both governments and businesses and provide them with guidance on the expectation of all parties with regards to human rights.

To catalyze implementation of UNGPs in the ASEAN countries, the Institute of Human Rights of University of Philippines (UP-IHR) and Oxfam organized the ASEAN Consultation Workshop: Civil Society Role towards Implementation of UNGPs on Business and Human Rights on 12 February 2016 in Quezon City to develop an ASEAN-wide strategy for civil society organizations (CSOs).

Around 50 CSO participants working in the ASEAN region provided updates on the statuses of Business and Human Rights (BHR) developments in their countries, formed a common vision in implementing the framework, and brainstormed for the next steps and concrete activities in achieving the identified visions.

Preliminary common visions formulated during the session include awareness promotion of BHR and UNGPs; creation of mechanism to prevent human rights violation of businesses; upholding State interventions in ensuring human rights; recognition of all gender groups; and promotion of corporate initiative in integrating BHR principles in private business firm policies.

Activity recommendations and points gathered from the consultation will be reviewed by the UP-IHR and Oxfam together with the CSOs to finalize the concrete next steps and activities to undertake. For ANGOC and International Land Coalition, Asia (ILC Asia), efforts will be undertaken to contribute in the formulation process of the action plans.