The Invisible Transport Workforce Keeping Supply Chains Moving

When we talk of front-line staff in the global coronavirus crisis, how often do we have in mind the docker, the seafarer, the long-distance freight trucker, the delivery driver – those transporting food, medical supplies, fuel and other essential...

Who is an “Essential Worker” in Times of Crisis?

There is a scene in Johan Renck’s highly acclaimed historical drama series, Chernobyl, when the Soviet authorities have to persuade 400 Russian and Ukrainian miners to risk their lives to prevent radioactive waste seeping into the water table and...

Too Few Women at the Top? Remove the Biases

On International Women’s Day, many cosmetic steps will be announced: there will be breathlessly tokenist gestures, such as an oil company changing its name for a day at one gas station, and a prime minister giving his social media handle to women...

Contending with the Coronavirus - What Should we Expect of Business During Global Health Emergencies?

In her opening statement last week to the United Nations Human Rights Council, UN High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet stressed that the unfolding coronavirus, COVID-19, outbreak constituted “a serious threat to the rights to life and to health of...

A Sustainable Maritime Industry Needs to get Human Rights Onboard

Anti-corruption and climate change has been high on the shipping agenda. However, the human rights challenges for crew, in ship building, ship repair and not least ship-recycling are many and complex. The global maritime industry should build on...

Linking Climate and Human Rights Throughout the Built Environment Lifecycle

Decisions about what we build, and how, define our future. And we are on a trajectory for explosive growth. Global building stocks are projected to double by 2060. By then, 70% of the world’s population will be city-based.

This comes at a time when...

The Best of 2019

As we get into a new year, we wanted to highlight some of the content we've published over the last 12 months. Our blogs and podcasts offer an opportunity for IHRB staff and guests to share their views and...

30 January 2020 | Commentary

Companies’ Role in Promoting Social Protectionism in the Coming Trade Wars

This article originally published in Ethical Corporation.



As we move into the third decade of the 21st century, the rules-based free trade system is under significant threat. Last month, the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB), the...

02 January 2020 | Commentary

Commentary by John Morrison, Chief Executive, IHRB

Reflections on Realising a Next Generation of Trade

As part of events to mark its 10th anniversary during 2019, IHRB hosted a major event on the future of international trade in an era of rising populism and protectionism.

Held at the Museum of London Docklands on 3rd December, the event brought...

20 December 2019 | Commentary

Labour Rights in the Hospitality Sector in Qatar: A Moment of Opportunity

Hospitality represents a significant and growing sector in Qatar, with a concentration of major international hotel brands and high-end properties. New hotel openings will intensify in the run up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup which is expected to...

Labor, Global Supply Chains, and the Garment Industry in South Asia - Bangladesh after Rana Plaza

For those of us who care for human rights and labor rights April 24, 2013 will always be known as the deadliest garment factory accident in history.

More than 1,125 people died and 2,000 were injured when Rana Plaza, an eight story building in the...

Realising Workers’ Rights in Qatar – A Conversation

Freedom of association and choosing to belong or not belong to a trade union are integral parts of a free society and are fundamental rights. Trade unions can play a vital role in improving health and safety, addressing grievances, and promoting...