BHR in the Middle East and North Africa Region…

Brief description of the session:

The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) have gained increased recognition among various stakeholders in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, including governments, businesses, national human rights institutions (NHRIs), civil society actors, academia and the legal community. However, despite the growing awareness, there are significant challenges in translating the UNGPs into effective frameworks for protecting and addressing human rights and environmental issues in the region.

This session will build upon the discussions from the past two annual forums to delve into the progress that has been achieved in advancing the business and human rights agenda, and to identify areas where further progress is needed and where gaps in protection persist. The session will also examine the implementation of the UNGPs, with a particular emphasis on a smart mix of measures to strengthen business and human rights in the MENA region.

Key objectives of the session:

• Examine the utilization of the UNGPs to enhance human rights in the MENA region. 
• Identify obstacles, drivers, and priorities crucial for realizing the UNGPs in the MENA region. 
• Discuss practical measures to raise awareness and promote the implementation of the UNGPs throughout the MENA region.  
• Explore strategies for enhancing the capacities of all stakeholders to effectively leverage the UNGPs as a tool for States and businesses to fulfil their respective duties and responsibilities to protect and respect human rights and the environment. 
• Emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders to advance the UNGPs.
  

Key discussion questions:

• What are the primary drivers and priorities that must be addressed to fully realize the UNGPs in the MENA region? 
• How can a smart mix of measures assist businesses in identifying and mitigating human rights risks across their operations and supply chains?  
• What valuable insights can be learned from the progress made in advancing the implementation of the UNGPs in the MENA region, and how can these lessons guide future efforts?

Moderator:

• Takoua Tayari

Speakers:

• Riyad Fakhri
• Damilola Olawuyi
• Mashael M. Al Sulaiti
• Asmaa Fakhoury
• Jamal Alkhadhuri