We’re calling on the UK Government to introduce a new law to protect communities, workers and our planet from the human rights abuses and environmental destruction caused by UK corporations and the public sector – a Business, Human Rights and Environment Act.
Why do we need A new law?
We all want to live and work in just, fair, thriving communities.
But right now, irresponsible UK companies are exploiting workers, harming communities and destroying our environment without facing any real consequences. See our case study report for key examples.
That’s why we need new rules that require corporations to listen to workers and communities, involve them in decision-making, prevent harms before they occur, and fix any damage they cause.
What exactly are we calling for?
A Business, Human Rights and Environment Act would bring UK legislation in line with international human rights standards, requiring UK companies and public institutions to identify and prevent human rights and environmental harms across their domestic operations and their global value chains.
Our proposal aligns with international developments on mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence legislation, whilst drawing on an existing legal mechanism being sucessfully used in the UK Bribery Act to transform corporate culture for the better.
This would help level the playing field for responsible businesses that are put at an economic disadvantage for doing the right thing.
But most importantly, it would ensure real consequences for companies that are exploiting people and destroying the planet, and would enable victims to access justice and demand compensation. Learn more here.
What action are we taking to drive legal change?
We’re working with more than 40 civil society organisations to build a movement in support of a Business Human Rights and Environment Act.
In partnership with Ekō, Anti-Slavery International, Freedom United, Transform Trade and Friends of the Earth we gathered 145,000 signatures demonstrating vast public support for a new UK law and delivered this message directly to the Prime Minister.
We’re engaging with MPs, Peers and businesses from across the UK and to date, 69 decision-makers have signed our Good Business Matters Pledge and 167 businesses and investors have signed letters calling for stronger legislation.
We’re speaking to diverse stakeholders from different parts of the world to ensure that our proposed law is aligned with the needs of communities, workers and businesses affected by UK companies through their value chains.
How can I get involved?
Click here if you’re a parliamentarian or you represent a business and you would like to show your support for responsible business laws.
Click here if you’re a member of the public for actions you can take to support our campaign.
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Scroll down for our key briefings, reports and news and updates from the campaign.
