Responding to Geoffrey Chandler’s essay in February, International Chamber of Commerce’s Erik Belfrage argues that the ICC is committed to human rights
In a recent essay [“Business and human rights – an account from the front line”, February 2008], Sir Geoffrey Chandler makes a compelling case for increased dialogue and mutual understanding between companies and NGOs on business and human rights. Oddly enough, the essay ends with a sharp dismissal of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), which is accused, without further justification, of “ill-serving” the corporate sector on “moral issues”.
Beyond the fact that such a claim does little to build trust and foster dialogue, ICC does not accept the implication that it may not be as fully committed to the realisation of human rights as Sir Geoffrey or others may be.
As one of the largest and most representative business organisations, ICC’s track record is second to none in providing input and support to the office of the UN high commissioner for human rights, and the secretary-general’s special representative John Ruggie, in their efforts to map out and define standards of corporate responsibility with regards to human rights. This support has materialised in numerous contributions at various levels to convey the experience of ICC’s thousands of members companies on the ground, and to participate in the elaboration of long-term solutions for the protection of human rights.
Being a membership-driven organisation, ICC has a duty to represent its members. In the current debate on business and human rights, ICC is duty-bound to contribute a faithful view of what its members consider to be achievable by business and what goes beyond business’s capacities and responsibilities. This contribution is fundamental to ensure that the solutions that are developed are realistic in practice.
It is in this spirit that ICC has continuously offered views on what can be reasonably expected of companies in promoting human rights, and how this should not be confused with the responsibilities of states under international law. It is in this spirit also that ICC continues to work together with other business organisations in developing concrete proposals, including for addressing dilemma situations in weak governance zones.
ICC looks forward to new opportunities for consultation and dialogue in the lead-up and follow-up to Professor Ruggie’s final report on business and human rights. Looking ahead, we fully share Sir Geoffrey’s hope that the positive involvement of companies in promoting human rights will be more broadly recognised, and that remaining gaps can be bridged in the interest of all.
Erik Belfrage
Chair, ICC Commission on Business in Society
Senior Vice-President, Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken