Introduction to Business & Human Rights: pioneering initiative by Global Compact Network Sri Lanka

Friday, 11 January 2019 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The training program will be conducted by Anisha Rajapakse, a senior international development professional with 20 years of experience

Part of the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, the UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka will be leading a ground-breaking introductory training session on Business & Human Rights (B&HR) on 24 January at Hilton Residences Colombo. The training is aimed at enabling participants to gain an understanding of the connection between business operations and human rights, as well as the importance of responsible business conduct and why it makes ‘business sense’ to identify and mitigate any potential risks in their supply chains regardless of the size of the company.

Through an interactive format, participants will be introduced to available mechanisms, replicable practices and tools to address human rights challenges and be ahead of the game in terms of engaging fully with sustainable corporate practices.

The one-day program is aimed primarily at private sector professionals in human resources, sustainability, legal and compliance functions. Decision-makers on social and environmental due diligence and governance are also expected to benefit. Participants are not required to possess prior experience in CSR, Sustainability or human rights. This training is the first in a series on B&HR aimed at strengthening the capacities of Sri Lankan companies to gain a more competitive edge in their national, regional and international business operations.

“Companies who take meaningful and long term action to respect human rights and make sure that they are not complicit in human rights abuses in their operations, are well-positioned to attract better talent, protect their reputation, mitigate risks, and often have higher profit margins,” Global Compact Network Sri Lanka Representative Azam Bakeer Markar said.

The training program will be conducted by Anisha Rajapakse, a senior international development professional with 20 years of experience. Anisha is a trusted global expert who has worked closely with corporates, governments, bilateral and multilateral bodies, UN, civil society and other strategic partners towards promoting business integrity and ensuring safe jobs in dignified working conditions in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

The training will also include input by practitioners from leading UN Global Compact signatory companies in Sri Lanka.

The training program is subsidised for UN Global Compact companies at Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 10,000 for other companies, organisations and individuals. With limited slots available, interested participants may register at the earliest by contacting [email protected] or 0773178217.