How do you measure the impact of your CSR initiatives on human rights?

1 Why measure human rights impact

Measuring the impact of your CSR initiatives on human rights is important for several reasons. First, it can help you identify and address any negative or unintended consequences of your business activities on the rights of your employees, customers, suppliers, communities, and other affected groups. Second, it can help you demonstrate your commitment and accountability to human rights principles and standards, such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights or the Global Reporting Initiative. Third, it can help you enhance your reputation and trust among your stakeholders, as well as your competitive advantage and market opportunities.

2 How to measure human rights impact

When measuring the impact of CSR initiatives on human rights, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Businesses must define their scope and objectives, considering the specific human rights issues they want to measure and why, as well as the relevant stakeholders and how to engage them. A human rights assessment is then conducted to collect and analyze data on potential impacts, using sources, methods, and indicators that ensure the quality of the data. Results should be reported and communicated in an accessible and transparent manner, with formats, channels, and audiences that ensure credibility. Finally, progress should be monitored and evaluated over time with tools and criteria that incorporate feedback and learning into CSR practices.

3 What tools to use

Various tools and frameworks can assist in measuring the impact of CSR initiatives on human rights. For example, the Human Rights Impact Assessment (HRIA) Tool is a comprehensive and participatory tool which guides users through the process of assessing, managing, and reporting on human rights impact. It is based on the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and covers a range of topics such as labor, health, security, privacy, and non-discrimination. The Human Rights Compliance Assessment (HRCA) Tool is a self-assessment tool that helps to check compliance with international human rights standards and identify any gaps or risks. It includes a database of over 1,000 questions covering 400 human rights indicators. Additionally, the Human Rights and Business Country Guide offers country-specific information and guidance on the human rights context, challenges, opportunities for business operations, practical recommendations, and best practices across 24 countries and 12 sectors like agriculture, mining, and tourism.

4 How to improve your human rights impact

Measuring the impact of your CSR initiatives on human rights is not an end in itself, but a means to improve your CSR performance and outcomes. Therefore, use the results of your measurement to inform decision-making and action-planning on how to prevent, mitigate, or remedy any adverse human rights impacts. To do this, you should align CSR policies and practices with international human rights standards and frameworks. Engage with stakeholders, especially affected groups, and seek their input, feedback, and participation in your CSR initiatives. Respect their rights, interests, and expectations, and address their concerns and grievances. Collaborate with other businesses, civil society organizations, governments, and international agencies to share knowledge, experience, and resources on human rights issues. Join or support initiatives and platforms that promote human rights awareness, advocacy, and action. Examples include the UN Global Compact, the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre, and the Global Business Initiative on Human Rights.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?