By: Saidu Jalloh, Reporter
The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Irish Aid, recently organized a two-day consultative workshop aimed at advancing the development of a National Action Plan (NAP) on Business and Human Rights.
Held on November 28 and 29, 2024, at the Bombali District Council Hall in Makeni, the workshop brought together 40 key stakeholders, including parliamentarians, ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and representatives from the private sector. This inclusive and participatory process sought to address human rights concerns within the business sector, with stakeholders providing valuable input for a comprehensive framework to guide both public and private sectors in aligning business practices with human rights standards.
HRCSL Chairperson Mrs. Patricia Narsu Ndanema emphasized the Commission’s expanded focus on monitoring business operations and their impact on human rights. While acknowledging the positive contributions of businesses to the economy, she expressed concern over practices that undermine human rights. “We want to see businesses operate in line with human rights standards,” Ndanema stated, highlighting the Commission’s role as a facilitator in this state-led initiative.
Alie B. Sesay, Senior Human Rights and Rule of Law Officer at UNDP, stressed the importance of creating a business environment that promotes human rights. “The NAP document will serve as a framework guiding both public and private sectors in aligning business practices with human rights principles,” he said.
Josephus Ellie, Senior Governance Advisor at the Irish Embassy, expressed optimism that the consultation would enhance participants’ understanding of the intersection between business and human rights. Parliamentary Committee Chair Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara also pledged Parliament’s support for the initiative.
Dr. Nana Busia, the lead consultant, presented on the application of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Discussions during the workshop addressed challenges, grievance mechanisms, and existing gaps within Sierra Leone’s business sector.
The finalized NAP is expected to tackle critical human rights issues in business operations and foster collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure respect for human rights. Participants provided key inputs to shape the document, aiming to balance business responsibilities with citizens’ rights. This engagement builds on HRCSL’s baseline assessments conducted in 2017 and 2021-2022, which highlighted the need for robust policies to regulate the investment sector.
