NIHR Participates in Third Arab Forum on Business and Human Rights in Jordan

TDT | Manama | Email : online@newsofbahrain.com 

Ali Ahmed Al Derazi, President of the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), participated in the opening session of the Third Arab Forum on Business and Human Rights, held in Jordan under the theme “Advancing Responsible Business Conduct: Human Rights at the Core of Sustainable Development in the Arab States.”

Al Derazi attended the forum in his capacity as Chairman of the Arab Network for National Human Rights Institutions.

In his opening address, he highlighted that respect for human rights has evolved beyond an ethical consideration to become a fundamental requirement for sustainable development, responsible investment, and effective governance. He stressed that lasting economic growth cannot be achieved without protecting human dignity and fundamental rights.

Al Derazi noted that previous regional discussions on business and human rights had helped strengthen cooperation and facilitate the exchange of expertise, leading to recommendations that support the implementation of the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. These recommendations also called for the development of national action plans through broad stakeholder engagement and the enhancement of legislative and policy frameworks aimed at safeguarding human rights.

He further underscored the importance of businesses adopting robust human rights due diligence measures, evaluating the impact of their operations, and addressing potential violations in accordance with international standards.

Al Derazi expressed hope that the forum would contribute to deeper regional cooperation, promote the sharing of best practices, and generate practical recommendations that support the development of a business environment that respects human rights while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

The forum brings together representatives from governments, national human rights institutions, civil society organisations, the private sector, and regional and international bodies to discuss key business and human rights issues affecting the Arab region.

The event is organised by Jordan’s National Centre for Human Rights in partnership with several regional and international organisations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), UNICEF, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the Arab Network for National Human Rights Institutions, in cooperation with the United Nations Working Group on Business and Human Rights.