HRIA in Business

There is a strong business case for developing and conducting human rights impact assessment, not only prior to investments, but also during business activities and after business projects have been finalised. Maintaining a good reputation, identifying and managing risks, improving stakeholder relations and creating a license to operate are but a few of the reasons for private enterprises to conduct a human rights impact assessment. Human rights impact assessments is a key to sustainable development.

Private enterprises leave physical and societal footprints. The activities of private enterprises have an impact on both the human rights of those within the company and the human rights of the broader community. These impacts could be direct or indirect, and positive or negative.

Human Rights Impact Assessment is about anticipating, managing and responding to potential human rights challenges and opportunities. HRIA for private enterprises feeds the strategy and decision making processes within the management of a company. The results of a Human Rights Impact Assessment is the basis for adjustment of corporate policies and processes as well as stakeholder engagement.