Why companies can do well by doing good

While we are starting to get the right frameworks in place on business and human rights, better enforcement of existing legislation would be a good place to start

Global Witness CEO Gillian Caldwell outlines to Ian Welsh some of her top global trends on business and human rights. She points out instances where business goes along too easily with restrictions on freedom of speech and repression by governments, but highlights a clear movement from consumers expecting brands and companies to be properly engaging on human rights.

She also argues that there is a wider realisation for companies that as they have made human rights a C-suite concern it is an area where best practice has business wide positive benefits.

They discuss the importance of a fast yet fair transition to a low carbon economy. Caldwell stresses that it’s those who have contributed least to climate change who will be impacted most. But, there are risks involved in the transition, not least in that so many of the necessary minerals for low-carbon innovation, such as leading-edge battery technology, are sourced from countries and regions with significant human rights challenges.