1.3. The need for a human rights-based approach to sustainable development
There are existing international instruments that we can derive inspiration and direction from
as we "adapt" and "adopt" in a rapidly changing environment. In addition to the UNGP-BHR,
the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, containing the 17 Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs), is of primary relevance.
Agreed upon by 170 countries, including the Philippines, in 2015, the 17 SDGs are a blueprint
for transforming the current planet instability, social inequities, and gender inequality into a
more peaceful, more equitable, and more prosperous world. More specifically, the SDGs aim
at universally ending poverty, protecting all that makes the planet habitable, and ensuring
that all people enjoy peace and prosperity at present and in the future.23 With the SDGs' focus
on empowerment and inclusion, there is a strong global affirmation that the human rights of
women and men alike are essential to sustainable development because these goals are only
achievable when human rights are protected, respected, and fulfilled in all settings, including
the context of the business as emphasized in the UNGP-BHR.
Corporations are beginning to look into sustainability efforts as it has been increasingly
integrated into reporting requirements. The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
has mandated all publicly listed companies in 2019 to submit a sustainability report, wherein
their efforts to contribute to the attainment of the country's SDGs commitments and to
support the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 (PDP – Ambisyon Natin 2040) should be
emphasized.24 Corporations are dependent on people and the environment; thus, it is crucial
and 'smart business' to approach sustainability in economic, social, and environmental
spheres. Accordingly, if companies are to comply with the SEC regulations, attention to
human rights is critical.
2. BUSINESS AND HUMAN RIGHTS
The business impacts on human rights are wide-ranging, multi-dimensional, and contextdependent as these are influenced by the type of industry and the environment in which it
operates. Figure 2 illustrates the positive and negative human rights impacts of businesses.
Figure 2: Human rights impacts of business25
Displacement of communities
Water contamination
Community engagement
Self-determination
Freedom of opinion
Privacy
Diversity
Recruitment fees
Passport retention
Forced labor
Child labor
Sexism
Harm
Discrimination
Underpayment
Modern slavery
Respect for
human rights is an
opportunity for
transformative
change in
people’s lives
Excessive force
Exploitation
Unsafe working conditions
Data privacy infringements
Respect
Health and safety
Inclusion
Dignity
Gender equality
Fair wages
Fair trial
Education
Land rights
Collective bargaining
Freedom of association
Living wage
Children’s rights
Empowerment
Freedom of movement
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