"The Business and Human Rights Treaty Debate: Is Now the Time?", 26 Nov 2014

...In September 2014...the Duke Human Rights Center at the Kenan Institute for Ethics hosted a discussion on the evolving obligations of businesses to respect human rights...One of the central questions...was whether the United Nations should move forward with a proposed treaty on transnational business and human rights, or whether it should focus on implementing the current Guiding Principles. This submission by Dr. Selvanathan shares the view he offered at the...debate. It is his personal opinion and does not reflect the position of the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights or the Global Compact...I support a treaty on Business and Human Rights. I believe that a legally-binding instrument, collectively developed and agreed upon by all stakeholders involved in protecting, respecting, and remedying human rights regarding any and all business activity, will demonstrate a global commitment to fulfilling the agenda...[I]t will deliver satisfaction and ultimately justice...[W]e must seize the opportunity to deliver a 'next generation' treaty...