By Celine da Graça Pires
Abstract:
In response to the growing challenges of corporate impacts on communities’ rights, UN Global Compact France is introducing an essential new resource: “Business and Affected Communities: Applying a Human Rights Lens to Community Engagement for Addressing Risks Effectively.”
This guide is the result of nearly two years of work, including:
• The launch of a dedicated Taskforce in May 2023, which brought together large and medium-sized companies from various sectors.
• Over 50 interviews with community representatives, Indigenous Peoples, NGOs, businesses, and experts.
• A field mission in Chile to engage directly with communities and community liaison officers.
Authored by our Research Associate Céline da Graça Pires, the guide aims at providing answers to key questions: How can businesses engage constructively with affected communities? How can they prevent, mitigate, and remedy their negative impacts? What challenges do both businesses and communities face? What practical actions should be implemented? What mistakes should be avoided? How can companies maximize positive impacts while respecting communities’ needs and aspirations?
This guide draws on real-life experiences from communities, Indigenous and tribal peoples, and businesses to improve existing practices and offer actionable recommendations.
The guide was launched in an event organized by the UN Global Compact France on the 25th of March 2025.
Published in:
2025
Online available at:
pactemondial.org