"「不断の対話・協働を」と駐日代表　経産省の人権尊重資料受け" 5 April 2023

[ Japanese-to-English translation: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre ]

On 5 April, Shinichi Takasaki, Director of the ILO Office for Japan, commented on thePractical Reference Material on Respect for Human Rights in Responsible Supply Chains published by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) on 4 April. While recognising that the document shows the direction in which companies should aim to establish human rights policies and identify and assess the risks of human rights violations, he also hopes that companies will promote dialogue and cooperation with their stakeholders and proactive information disclosure.

This material concretizes and summarizes Guidelines on Respecting Human Rights in Responsible Supply Chains, which was developed by a study group in which the ILO participated as a member and formulated by the Japanese government last September, in line with actual business practice.[...]

Takasaki says: "Developing a human rights policy and identifying human rights risks using the practical reference materials published this time is only the first step in respecting human rights. Companies are also expected to engage in daily dialogue and collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders, including workers, on risk mitigation and remedies. They are also expected to proactively disclose information and understand and respond to society's expectations of respect for human rights". "The ILO has materials that show specific ways on how to deal with individual labour issues such as forced labour, child labour and discrimination. Using these materials, the ILO will continue to support governments, companies and trade unions".