What is the first step a business should take to respect human rights?

The first step a business should take to respect human rights is to create a human rights policy. A human rights policy serves as a foundational document that outlines the organization's commitment to respecting human rights in all its operations. It establishes clear guidelines and principles that govern how the business will identify and address human rights impacts and obligations.

Developing a human rights policy is crucial because it sets the tone for a culture of respect for human rights within the organization. It signals to stakeholders, employees, and external parties that the company is serious about its commitment to human rights and is willing to embed these values in its corporate governance and strategic decision-making processes.

Once the policy is in place, businesses can then proceed with the establishment of a due diligence process, effective communication with stakeholders, and implementation of remediation strategies if necessary. However, without a solid policy framework to guide these subsequent actions, organizations may struggle to adequately address their human rights impact.