2018 United Nations Forum on Business and Human Rights

Brief description of the presentation
In the absence of a progressive legal and regulatory environment, Lebanese and MENA corporates increasingly seek recognition for their BHR commitment by undertaking self-assessments and joining signatory initiatives. Accreditation frameworks developed in consultation with international organizations like the UN, World Bank and international development funds provide corporates with the necessary tool to go beyond local laws and demonstrate their commitment to international best practices. Research reveals how the financial industry is the most sensitive to operational and reputational risk while other industries still needs to work hard to adhere to best principles and standards in an increasingly convergent self-regulatory environment.

Presentation objectives: 
Drawing on research undertaken by Shareholder Rights, the presentation will highlight alternative approaches tackling BHR in developing economies where legal and regulatory frameworks still struggle to keeping up to par with international requirements.