Executive Action Brief for Human Rights

Guiding executives to put human rights at the heart of resilient, competitive business 

The new Executive Action Brief makes the case for why respecting human rights is not just a moral imperative but a business necessity. The world’s 2,000 most influential companies directly employ 95 million people, yet over 28 million people worldwide are victims of forced labor – 86% of which occurs in the private economy. Despite the clear benefits, only 9% of companies engage with affected stakeholders to improve human rights and decent work practices. Failing to act can cost companies an estimated USD $3.5 billion per year in boycotts, litigation, fines, and reputational damage. 

This brief shows how companies can avert harm, anticipate regulatory and financial risks, and become the preferred brand for investors, partners, and communities. It provides concrete steps to embed human rights in governance, operations, and value chains, and to influence the broader system through advocacy, collaboration, and investor engagement. 

Download the brief to see how your business can lead on human rights and secure long-term value and resilience.