Faith leaders worldwide endorse a joint letter advocating for a legally binding instrument on business and human rights.
Over 100 leaders from 31 countries representing diverse faiths have issued a joint call to governments worldwide, urging them to engage constructively in the negotiations towards a legally binding international instrument on business and human rights.
This appeal stems from serious concerns about the growing impact of irresponsible business practices on human rights and the environment, especially where effective regulation and accountability are absent. Faith leaders emphasise that voluntary frameworks alone are inadequate. They highlight the moral and legal duty for States to ensure that economic activities uphold human dignity and protect the environment.
With the 11th session of the Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group on Transnational Corporations and Other Business Enterprises with Respect to Human Rights due to take place in October 2025, States are encouraged to seize this crucial chance to build a consensus on a treaty that prioritises human rights, guarantees access to justice, and enhances accountability in global business activities.
“As we are approaching a decisive moment in the UN LBI process, it is imperative that States engage constructively to achieve consensus on a robust and effective legally binding instrument that ensures corporate accountability and upholds the primacy of human rights.”
Susana Hernández Torres, Corporate Regulation Officer, CIDSE
This initiative is supported by Christian Aid, ACT Alliance, World YWCA, Franciscans International, Trócaire, CIDSE and CAFOD.
Additional resources:
– Explainer: “A binding international instrument on business and human rights – why us, and why now?” (ES – PT)
CIDSE contact: Susana Hernández Torres, Corporate Regulation Officer, CIDSE (hernandez(at)cidse.org)
Cover photo: United Nations headquarters, Geneva. Credit: CIDSE.