STATEMENT
47th session of the Human Rights Council
Panel discussion on the tenth anniversary of the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Statement delivered by Ms Anniken Enersen, Minister-Counsellor Human Rights
Check against delivery
29 June 2021
Madam President
In 2011, Norway and the core group helped secure the Council’s unanimous endorsement of the UN Guiding Principles.
This created a common platform for addressing risks to human rights in the global economy.
The 10th anniversary is a landmark. Norway welcomes the Working Group’s stocktaking report and the inclusive multi-stakeholder approach of its UNGPs 10+ project.
Our own experience resonates with the assessment that the first ten years have demonstrated that change is possible when there is political will.
Norway was one of the first countries to draw up a national action plan in 2015.
Earlier this month, Norway adopted a transparency act that require covered companies to conduct human rights due diligence across their own activities and supply chains.
Our own experience supports the need for the smart mix of measures that the Guiding Principles call for.
Sustainable public procurement and financial institutions can drive human rights due diligence.
The progress so far provides hope. But we must do more.
As the report underlines, we need to overcome siloed agendas The Guiding Principles can be a tool to help realise a just transition to a green economy.
It is important to track state implementation more systematically, including through the UPR and the UN Forum on Business and Human Rights.
Responsible business, in line with the Guiding Principles, is critical for a responsible recovery from the current crisis,for realizing sustainable development and to build back better
Norway looks forward to the Working Group’s roadmap for the next decade.
We urge all states and businesses to take active part in its implementation.
I thank you.