A business model relying on short lead times for suppliers because of seasonal factors or high speed delivery requirements. Suppliers may require excessive working hours or cut corners on safety to meet time pressure on production. Balance the cost of longer-term warehousing of goods against the increased employee risks linked to seasonal production. Where other products have different seasonal cycles, help suppliers with their capacity planning. Work with other companies sourcing from the same suppliers to find ways of reducing the risks. Business relationships A joint venture partnership with – or the sale of sensitive products to – governments, state agencies or business partners with a poor track record on human rights. Disregard for human rights by a government or business partner may expose people to harm in relation to the company’s operations. For example, where governments provide a license or permits for land without due process for communities that use it, or if a government misuses sensitive technology to harm citizens. Carry out due diligence on business relationships. Seek champions within partners’ home government and work with that government to improve respect for human rights. Ensure any venture or sales contracts include provisions to respect human rights.
from, locations where the state limits recognition of land title for indigenous peoples and other rural communities. tenure is not legally recognised; where the government awards title without due process or compensation; or where the government fails to secure the prior informed consent of indigenous people who have specific internationally recognised rights relating to their land. Ensure due diligence looks beyond legal documents showing title to land to assess the history of land use and acquisition. Ensure water assessments consider community access to water for drinking and hygiene needs, as well as environmental impacts. Identify whether local communities claim indigenous status, and understand the particular human rights of indigenous peoples and their implications for business plans. Operations based in, or procurement from, locations where the state limits the equality rights of specific groups. Discrimination in local practices or laws may be perpetuated or exacerbated in connection with the company's activities where protections are not in place. Ensure risk assessments address legal restrictions and local practices. Adopt non-discriminatory company policies, raise awareness of discrimination and explain why it is unacceptable. Ensure grievance systems are known, accessible and effective. Work with government and others to encourage protection against discrimination.
Public policy decisions Lobbying against regulations or other public policy initiatives intended to advance human rights. The state’s duty to protect human rights is undermined, making it more difficult for companies to respect human rights. Screen direct lobbying, and lobbying through business associations, for compatibility with respect for human rights. Where lobbying by business associations is incompatible with respect for human rights, raise this with the associations and, if necessary, disassociate the company publicly.