Human Rights and Competitiveness - Reframing the Business Case for Human Rights

The conventional narrative around the business case for human rights often frames it as a win-win scenario for both companies and society. We advocate for a more nuanced perspective on the risks and opportunities businesses face when addressing human rights. Through conversations with corporate professionals and reviewing empirical evidence, we explore legal and reputational considerations, operational questions, and the role of investors and stakeholder relations.

We argue that companies are better positioned for long-term success when their business models are grounded in respect for human rights. In such cases, human rights are not merely an ethical add-on, but an integral part of how the business operates – making the business case for human rights inherent rather than instrumental.

In a time where businesses’ sustainability initiatives are coming increasingly under scrutiny, amid a complex geopolitical situation, highlighting how human rights matter for companies is crucial. Key activities include:

• Capacitating current and future managers through the integration of human rights in business education.

• Offering safe spaces for companies to discuss shared challenges.