Background

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In the context of global economic uncertainty where businesses are facing multi-dimensional challenges including changes in government policies and regulations, political instability, and intensified consequences of natural disasters related to climate change, it is imperative to provide a constructive platform for businesses and local communities to explore potential shared values and common grounds and exchange their insights to bridge the gaps between sustainable policies and their operationalisations. 

This session will encourage representatives from businesses operating in Southeast Asia, civil society groups, and local communities to discuss the implementation challenges concerning environmental and human rights safeguards. 

The session will also highlight one of the tools to address the implementation challenges by establishing the effective Grievance Redress and Accountability Mechanisms (GRAMs) to reduce corporate risks and empower community voices. It will provide examples of effective criteria considerations based on Principle 31 of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

This multi-stakeholder dialogue session will directly address not only communication gaps but also facilitate discussion on how to increase credibility, reduce reputational risks, and recommendations for tangible actions. The intended outcome is the creation of a sustainable communication channel, enhancing access to resources and support for advancing responsible business conduct and human rights within the region.

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Key Objectives

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• To provide a constructive platform for stakeholders to exchange expertise and insights in mitigating risks and implementation barriers concerning environmental and human rights safeguards and policies by fostering dialogue between business, civil society, and local communities.

• To demonstrate the examples of good business practices where business can utilize meaningful stakeholder engagement plans and effective Grievance Redress and Accountability Mechanisms (GRAMs) to strengthen the assurance of human rights due diligence and sustainability

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Guiding Questions

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• What are the common interests or shared values of business and community engagement? 

• What are the major challenges that prevent effective communications between businesses and communities?

•  What are the examples of good business practices to foster the dialogue between business and communities? 

• What are the tools and resources available to fill the gaps of implementation human rights due diligence and sustainability? 

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Session Partners