CIMA and Global Compact Network UK launch Human Rights guidelines
View(s):The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the Global Compact Network UK have published a guidance document aimed at helping Chartered Global Management Accountants (CGMAs) and finance professionals across the world support their organisations in upholding human rights. In a press release this week, the guidance called “Business and Human Rights: Evolution and Acceptance”, provides finance professionals with a clearer understanding of the nuanced demands of being human rights aware and compliant by showing examples of how to put the “United Nation’s Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights” into practice.
Using case studies and step-by-step guidance it highlights what investments may need to be made to maintain or achieve respect for human rights across the organisation to safeguard operations and reputation. Head of Ethics at CIMA Tanya Barman said businesses should strive to be ahead of regulation, rather than rushing to catch up. “They need to proactively protect their social license to operate and our guidance is designed to help them do that. Most importantly, business leaders need to ensure they encourage their employees to recognise their own agency and responsibility in this area. To achieve full human rights compliance, the message needs to be consistent and constant.” -NG