On August 13th, 2003, a Sub-commission of the United
Nations Human Rights Commission in Geneva adopted the first set
of comprehensive international human rights norms specifically applying
to companies. As endorsed by the UN Sub-Commission on the Promotion
and Protection of Human Rights, these are “Norms on Responsibilities
of Transnational Corporations and Other Business Enterprises with
Regard to Human Rights.” Human Rights First and other nongovernmental
organizations participated in drafting these guidelines, which seek
to constructively involve relevant business communities, governments,
and NGOs in clarifying the human rights obligations of companies.
Although historically, international human rights law has focused
on state responsibilities, the UN has recognized that as global
businesses expand their scope, there has also developed a need to
clarify the role of businesses with regard to human rights. Human Rights First
supports the establishment of these clear international standards
that hold companies accountable for protecting and promoting workers
rights and other human rights around the world.
On August 13th, 2003, a Sub-commission of the United
Nations Human Rights Commission in Geneva adopted the first set
of comprehensive international human rights norms specifically applying
to companies. As endorsed by the UN Sub-Commission on the Promotion
and Protection of Human Rights, these are “Norms on Responsibilities
of Transnational Corporations and Other Business Enterprises with
Regard to Human Rights.” Human Rights First and other nongovernmental
organizations participated in drafting these guidelines, which seek
to constructively involve relevant business communities, governments,
and NGOs in clarifying the human rights obligations of companies.
