Human Rights Due Diligence in Global Value Chains

Abstract

Purpose – This chapter discusses the possibilities and difficulties in the development of pragmatic solutions to address human rights issues in global value chains in line with the existing institutional framework.

Design/methodology/approach – A conceptual chapter examining the development and impact of a new public–private governance institution, namely the protect–respect–remedy framework developed under the auspices of the UN.

Findings – The concept of due diligence that is central to the UN framework has been incorporated into other codes by the OECD and the IFC, and offers a promising way of defining the human rights responsibilities of MNEs. At the same time, the information required for an effective due diligence analysis is difficult to gather, and requires extensive cooperation with nonmarket partners.

Originality/value – The chapter combines perspectives from international business and legal studies to achieve a better understanding of the development and implications of a new governance instrument concerning the human rights obligations of MNEs.

Citation

Lundan, S.M. and Muchlinski, P. (2012), "Human Rights Due Diligence in Global Value Chains", Van Tulder, R., Verbeke, A. and Voinea, L. (Ed.) New Policy Challenges for European Multinationals (Progress in International Business Research, Vol. 7), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 181-201. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1745-8862(2012)0000007011