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Article

9 May 2017

Author:
Romola Adeola, in The Conversation (So. Africa)

Africa: Columnist says political will necessary for successful implementation of proposed policy on business & human rights

"Why the African Union must press ahead with a business and human rights policy"

The African Union (AU) is developing a policy designed to hold companies to account by setting down guidelines on how they should conduct business on the continent. The aim of the policy is to implement a set of guiding principles drawn up by the United Nations. It will provide a roadmap for states, regional economic communities and regional institutions to regulate the impact of business activities on people. The policy also seeks to advance guidance for firms conducting activities in Africa...

The AU’s policy is a right step towards ensuring business upholds human rights. But it’s only the start of a long journey towards deepening a culture of respect for human rights among businesses in Africa...A number of key steps need to be taken if the policy is to become a reality. First, sufficient resources must be made available to make sure its implemented by both states and regional bodies. Secondly, states must drive policy implementation with the political will to regulate businesses within their territories. And finally institutions must be strengthened at all levels of implementation including national, regional and continental levels. [refers to Coca-Cola, Shell, ENI & Agro EcoEnergy. Agro EcoEnergy has in the past responded to concerns against its operations in Tanzania. The response in available here]