https://www.humanrights.dk/publications/smart-mix-measures-business-huma...
An advance version of this publication was launched at the UN Regional Business and Human Rights Forum on 9 April 2025.
We welcome feedback on the smart mix measures covered in the report, at both the national levels and regional level, before end April 2025 to Daniel Morris damo@humanrights.dk
A final version will be launched in May 2025.
The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights detail that States should implement a smart mix of binding and non-binding measures to address gaps in rights protection, access to redress mechanisms, and respect for human rights in the context of business activities.
This new publication by the Danish Institute for Human Rights presents an overview of the adoption of various regulatory and public policy measures on business and human rights in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Mexico, as well as at the regional level. Some of the trends identified include:
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Many countries have adopted national action plans on business and human rights, but no specific laws on human rights due diligence exist.
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While regulation on responsible business conduct is currently fragmented and not framed under a unified approach, there is an active regulatory ecosystem that addresses specific elements of responsible business conduct - such as environmental protection, labour standards, and transparency.
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There has been progress in participation and environmental justice measures at the domestic level, reinforced by the Escazú Agreement at the regional level.
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Access to judicial remedy remains a significant challenge.
The objective of this publication is to enrich the dialogue on the need for mandatory human rights due diligence legislation, and to highlight opportunities, gaps, and challenges such legislation would need to respond to.
