What is the first step in the human rights due diligence process?

The first step in the human rights due diligence process is to identify actual or potential human rights impacts. This initial phase is crucial as it lays the foundation for the entire due diligence process. By systematically identifying and assessing the human rights impacts associated with an organization's operations and supply chains, a company can understand where risks may arise and what effects its activities might have on individuals and communities.

This identification process enables organizations to gather relevant data, engage with stakeholders, and explore the implications of their practices, ensuring that they are aware of both their direct and indirect impacts on human rights. This understanding is critical for developing appropriate responses and interventions later in the due diligence process, which includes integrating findings, taking action, and tracking effectiveness.

Other options, while important components of the broader human rights due diligence framework, occur after the initial identification of impacts has taken place. Without first identifying the human rights impacts, any subsequent actions or evaluations would lack the necessary context to be effective or meaningful.