What Is Human Rights Due Diligence?

Human rights are universal moral and legal precepts that consider the dignity and worth of all people. 

All businesses are responsible for respecting human rights as defined in the International Bill of Human Rights. 

Companies can take steps to respect human rights by engaging in three key activities: 

1. At the corporate level, adopt a firm commitment to respecting human rights.
2. Engage in an ongoing human rights due diligence (HRDD) process.
3. Remediate human rights violations occur when they occur.

Human rights due diligence identifies, mitigates and accounts for how an organization addresses adverse human rights concerns throughout its operations and value chain. Businesses of all sizes are expected to build the infrastructure necessary to conduct HRDD regularly throughout their operations.

Governments require HRDD as part of a company's corporate responsibility program if it plans to operate within its jurisdiction or participate in state contracts. Implementing HRDD is a company’s pledge to exercise adequate oversight, meet international human rights obligations and promote the rule of law.

To stay competitive in a global marketplace, organizations are increasingly expected to map out and implement HRDD across their supply chains and remain vigilant.