The Bahrain Center for Human Rights (BCHR) participated in the Business and Human Rights Forum held in Geneva on 25 to 27 November 2024, confirming its commitment to advancing human rights within the framework of sustainable development and responsible business practices. This global platform allowed BCHR to address critical topics and emphasize the importance of aligning business operations with human rights principles to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
During the forum, BCHR highlighted the urgent need for capacity building for human rights defenders (HRDs), equipping them with the skills, tools, and knowledge necessary to engage effectively with businesses and advocate for corporate accountability. By empowering human rights defenders, BCHR aims to amplify their impact in addressing corporate-related human rights abuses, ensuring that ethical practices are at the heart of economic development.
A key priority was empowering civil society to engage more actively and constructively with businesses. BCHR called for stronger collaboration between non-governmental organizations, businesses, and governments to ensure transparency, accountability, and mutual understanding. This collaboration is essential for addressing systemic challenges and ensuring that businesses contribute positively to society.
The forum also provided an opportunity to advocate for environmentally sustainable practices within the business community. BCHR urged companies to prioritize green initiatives, renewable energy, and eco-friendly operations, aligning with global sustainability standards. It stressed the importance of embedding environmental responsibility into corporate strategies to safeguard future generations.
Another crucial focus area was the rights of migrant workers, a significant and often vulnerable segment of the labor force. BCHR called for the development of comprehensive monitoring mechanisms to ensure ethical labor practices, fair treatment, and protection from exploitation. Advocacy for legal frameworks that uphold the dignity and rights of migrant workers remains central to BCHR’s mission.
In addition, BCHR emphasized the need for women’s empowerment and gender equality in all aspects of business and society. The center advocated for policies ensuring equal pay, workplace inclusion, and leadership opportunities for women, underscoring the role of gender equality in fostering economic growth and social harmony.
The protection of human rights activists and defenders was another critical area addressed. BCHR highlighted the importance of strengthening legal protections for activists, ensuring their voices are heard on regional and international platforms, and creating safe environments for them to carry out their vital work without fear of reprisal.
The forum also served as a platform to promote collaboration and partnerships as a means to address complex human rights challenges. BCHR emphasized the value of multi-stakeholder approaches, bringing together civil society, businesses, and governments to find innovative and sustainable solutions to shared challenges.
Throughout its participation, BCHR reiterated its belief that legitimacy and a human-centered approach are essential for true sustainability. By prioritizing human rights, equality, and environmental supervision, businesses can contribute to a sustainable future that values people and the planet.
BCHR remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for human rights, promote sustainable development, and ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and respected. Its participation in the Geneva forum is a testament to its ongoing efforts to build a more just, equitable, and sustainable society for all.