Abu Dhabi, 8 May 2025 — The Permanent Committee for Human Rights (PCHR), in partnership with the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA), convened a high-level fireside chat today under the theme “Business and Human Rights: Practical Insights on Human Rights Due Diligence.” The session, part of an ongoing series running from February to June 2025, brought together international experts, business leaders, and policy thinkers to explore how companies can align with global human rights standards while remaining grounded in regional values.
Held at a pivotal moment for global governance and business accountability, the discussion focused on the growing momentum behind Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) — a process increasingly embedded in national and regional legislation. Recent frameworks such as the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, France’s Duty of Vigilance law, and Norway’s transparency regulations are transforming HRDD from a voluntary aspiration into a legal obligation.
In her opening remarks, Hind Alowais, Director of the Permanent Committee for Human Rights, emphasized the UAE’s recognition of human rights as part and parcel of the UAE’s history and on going trajectory: “We are witnessing a profound shift in how human rights are integrated into global business models. The UAE has been and will always be committed to ensuring that economic growth and social development go hand in hand with respect for human dignity and shared values. Today’s dialogue reflects our commitment to continue to build on the progress already achieved in a way that resonates with our region’s realities.”
The session featured Dr. Damilola Olawuyi, UNESCO Chair in Environmental Law and Sustainable Development at Hamad Bin Khalifa University and UN Independent Expert, who noted the rising legal significance of HRDD:
“There is a shift from soft principles to binding norms. Human Rights Due Diligence has become a strategic legal tool for managing risk — businesses must now operate within a dual ethical and legal imperative.”
Joëlle Jammal, Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network UAE, contextualized the issue within national priorities:
“In the UAE’s Year of Community, aligning corporate conduct with social values is more important than ever. Businesses that integrate human rights into their core identity not only reduce risks but help build more inclusive and resilient societies.”
From the private sector, Yasmine Barbir, Co-Founder and Chief Impact Officer of FusionMinds AI, highlighted how HRDD can be leveraged for competitive advantage:
“When built into corporate strategy, due diligence is not a burden — it becomes a source of innovation and trust. Especially with emerging technologies like AI, we have a responsibility to ensure they enhance human rights, not erode them.”
Moderated by Alowais, the session also addressed practical approaches to supplier engagement, ESG reporting, and the integration of environmental and human rights due diligence. Participants underscored the urgency of fostering cross-sector partnerships and tailoring global norms to local contexts for effective implementation.
The event marked another milestone in the UAE’s broader efforts to promote a private sector that is ethical, and inclusive. As global norms continue to evolve, the UAE positions itself as a regional leader in aligning human rights with economic resilience and sustainable development.