2018 United Nations Forum on Business and Human Rights

 
Brief description of the presentation:
The French duty of vigilance law requires parent companies to identify and manage human-rights risks. How to take into account the highly operational nature of human rights issues and provide appropriate responses on the ground? This session is a case study as to how companies and international trade unions can work together collaboratively to address human rights risks at the country level in Qatar and find solutions in cases where human risks have risen.

Presentation objectives:
This presentation aims to provide a practical example of human rights risks management at a country level: Vinci’s risk management of living and working conditions in Qatar.

Brief description of the presentation:
The French law applies to large companies with international activities. It requires the implementation of a global risk prevention process (identification, evaluation, management and monitoring) covering different thematic areas within the company. How can we lead the process, promote cross-functionality and involve all stakeholders?

Presentation objectives:
This presentation aims to give two examples of companies for the deployment of an effective approach within large groups of companies: the example of Orange on how to work together and to build a shared vision; and the example of BNP Paribas on how to support the process through appropriate training actions.

Brief description of the presentation:
 This presentation will rely on the reference guidance on the duty of vigilance developed by Sherpa (the "VPRG"). It will give an overview of the aspects of published Vigilance Plans that most need improvement for the second round of implementation of the law in 2019. In particular, issues of disclosure and follow-up on implementation of vigilance measures will be addressed.

Presentation objectives: 
This presentation should inform civil society’s advocacy strategies around the Vigilance Law. The elements presented could also be of utmost importance for companies wanting to comply thoroughly with the law to circumvent the risk of litigation. Indeed, it should be recalled that the Law’s judicial enforcement mechanisms will be applicable from the spring 2019.