A two-day Business and Human Rights training workshop was successfully conducted on November 13th and 14th in Islamabad. The workshop was organized by AwazCDS-Pakistan in partnership with Swedwatch and brought together participants from seven Civil Society Organizations under the PDA framework. The intensive program aimed to build the capacity of civil society representatives to address human rights challenges in business contexts, ensuring responsible business practices that respect human rights.

Mr. Mathieu Vervynckt, Head of Unit Value Chains, and Ms. Ase Botha, Communications Officer at Swedwatch facilitated the workshop. The training combined foundational theories with practical case studies, covering key topics such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP), OECD principles and frameworks, and Pakistan’s National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights.

The discussions highlighted the relevance of these frameworks in promoting responsible business conduct that aligns with international standards. The facilitators emphasized the need for states to implement and monitor these principles effectively while urging buyers and corporations to uphold human rights within their supply chains. The participants engaged in meaningful dialogue on labor rights fulfillment and the role of businesses in ensuring ethical practices.

The workshop underscored the importance of aligning with the European Union’s mandatory requirements and guidelines for business operations in Pakistan. Participants noted that the government must proactively sensitise all relevant stakeholders about these EU guidelines and ensure compliance. Strengthened systems for monitoring and surveillance were recommended to enhance transparency and accountability within businesses operating in Pakistan.

Mr. Zia ur Rehman, Chief Executive of AwazCDS-Pakistan, has expressed his appreciation for the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights introduced by Pakistan’s Ministry of Human Rights. He commended the government for introducing meaningful interventions that support Pakistan’s business community and respect labour and workers’ rights. However, Mr. Rehman also highlighted that implementing the National Action Plan remains weak and that many relevant stakeholders are unaware of its provisions. He stressed the need for this plan to align with the European Union’s mandatory due diligence requirements for business operations. Such steps are crucial for fostering businesses and eliminating poverty and unemployment in Pakistan. He also stressed the need for capacity building among both workers and the business management community, as enhancing their understanding of labour rights and integrating human rights principles into everyday business operations is crucial for fostering a culture of respect and compliance.

The workshop concluded with a collective call to action for the government, businesses, and civil society to work collaboratively towards implementing responsible business practices. By prioritizing human rights, Pakistan can ensure its alignment with global standards and foster an equitable, sustainable, and ethical business environment.