Advertisement The Margaret Beaufort Institute of TheologyThe Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology Would you like to advertise on ICN? Click to learn more.

CAFOD calls on UK to affirm leadership on Human Rights Day


CAFOD has called on the government to mark Human Rights Day by committing to a treaty which would protect the rights of poor communities affected by irresponsible business practices. The Catholic aid agency made the call ahead of Human Rights Day, which marks the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on 10 December each year.

Anne Lindsay, CAFOD's private sector policy analyst, said: "Supporting a treaty which prevents businesses from violating the rights of poor communities would be clear evidence of the government's leadership in this field. As Pope Francis has said, 'Business is a noble vocation' which helps us to fulfil our potential as human beings and funds a society in which we can all flourish. Yet, as the Holy Father warns, we can't put profits before people and so we must ensure that communities are protected from the worst business practices."

Chancellor and then-Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond spoke on Human Rights Day in 2015 of how the UK remains a leader on human rights, 800 years after Magna Carta.

Anne Lindsay added that the treaty on business and human rights, which is currently being discussed in Geneva, should provide access to justice for groups whose rights have been impacted by businesses.

Lindsay said: "The government has eagerly supported greater measures for businesses to defend their rights, raising the question of why it is not prepared to invest the same effort in protecting people in affected communities. Given that the UK aspires to demonstrate its leadership role in the world - especially following the EU referendum - playing a constructive role in UN discussions on a treaty will show that the government is committed to promoting responsible business and supporting affected communities."

Adverts

The Archbishop Romero Trust

We offer publicity space for Catholic groups/organisations. See our advertising page if you would like more information.

We Need Your Support

ICN aims to provide speedy and accurate news coverage of all subjects of interest to Catholics and the wider Christian community. As our audience increases - so do our costs. We need your help to continue this work.

You can support our journalism by advertising with us or donating to ICN.

Mobile Menu Toggle Icon