Background

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In order to develop sustainable business practices we need to better interrogate business models that can align profit with purpose. Globally there are countervailing forces - some encouraging greater and faster progress on mainstreaming human rights and environmental standards into business operations, with others working to dismantle DEI and ESG programs. Asia is the natural epicentre of business and human rights activities and has the opportunity to step into this governance gap and lead with innovative practice.

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This session will focus on identifying and interrogating replicable business practices that are demonstrating effective human rights and environmental due diligence (HREDD) with a focus on corporate practices in Asia.

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Key Objectives

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• To understand how HREDD can practically be developed and implemented

• To showcase examples of where companies are innovating and applying transformative approaches using Asian and global examples.

• To understand how profit and purpose can be aligned in supply chain practices

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Guiding Questions

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• What defines a transformational business practice?

• What are the key drivers and barriers?

• How can these approaches be scaled and replicated?

• What does HREDD look like when done well?  

• What is the opportunity for Asian based companies, governments and CSOs in advancing business model reform?

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Format

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The session will be interactive. It will begin by showcasing three practical examples of where companies are implementing transformative approaches in their business practices. The panel will then critique these business practices and the audience will then discuss in groups answers to the questions posed above and also identify other transformative business practices.

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Session Partners