10 December: Human Rights Day

December 10, Human Rights Day, commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the UN in 1948. It is a day of reminder of the commitment to equality, dignity and justice for all, as well as an opportunity for businesses to rethink their role in safeguarding these fundamental values. 

Businesses directly and indirectly affect human rights through their activities. From workforce management to supply chain, organizations have the power to strengthen or undermine the rights of individuals and communities. According to the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), companies have a responsibility to respect human rights, regardless of the location or nature of their activities. Business and business strategy consultants, human resource management services are key cogs in strengthening human rights in businesses and organizations.  

A critical issue facing businesses is working in decent conditions. Despite progress, the International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that around 28 million people live in conditions of forced labour. To combat these phenomena, businesses need to ensure transparency in their procurement processes, cooperate with certified suppliers and implement zero-tolerance policies on exploitation. 

Supporting human rights also enhances reputation and trust in the company. Consumers and investors are increasingly interested in the social impact of products and services. Research shows that 73% of consumers prefer to buy from companies that support socially just practices (Edelman Trust Barometer 2024). 

Technological developments offer tools to monitor and analyse human rights compliance. Blockchain platforms for product traceability and data analytics tools can help businesses identify potential risks.