There is growing momentum on business and human rights across the Pacific. Foreign investment can bring development gains but, if companies investing in the region do not meet internationally-recognised human rights expectations, the risk of human rights harm is high.

This is particularly true in high-risk sectors such as mining, fishing, forestry and, increasingly, tourism. Visibility, and an awareness of the issues, is key for all stakeholders working to advance respect for human rights by businesses operating in the Pacific.

Context and Introduction

Visibility of the human rights impacts of business in the Pacific is low. With new investments growing in the region, Pacific communities face increasing challenges for fair and informed engagement with global companies, and run the risk of abuse. This is particularly true for those on the frontline of deforestation, irresponsible mining, fishing, tourism and seabed exploitation. Human rights harms are being documented in an increasing number of reports, including by the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre.

There is an urgent need to raise awareness of the human rights responsibilities of companies operating in the region, and to expose business-related abuses being committed against communities and workers. Stability in the Pacific region requires urgent action to ensure human rights are embedded in investments. Without regard to international rules requiring respect for human rights in business, the sustainability of life in the Pacific for future generations is under threat.

Greater focus on the Pacific region is required to bring to light the true scale of human rights abuse.

With this new portal, we bring the broad range of local business and human rights challenges and opportunities into sharper focus, and amplify local and community voices from the Pacific.