News release : Government fails to hold extractive sector companies accountable.

The Canadian Network on Corporate Accountability, of which Amnesty International Canada is a member organization, has put out a news release expressing its dismay at the Harper government's announcement:

(Ottawa- March 26, 2009) Today’s government announcement on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has squandered the important consensus reached by industry and civil society organizations on how to ensure that the overseas operations of Canadian extractive companies adhere to international environmental and human rights standards. Almost two years ago, the multi-stakeholder Advisory Group to the National Roundtables on CSR in the Extractive Sector submitted its consensus report to the Canadian government. Today’s long-awaited response ignores the report’s central recommendations.

“Industry and civil society leaders called for the adoption of clear standards that would apply to all Canadian extractive companies operating in developing countries,” says Alex Neve, Secretary General of Amnesty International Canada. “But sadly, the government has opted for voluntary guidelines that fall far short of international human rights norms. It is hard to see how this represents any significant progress.”

The Advisory Group’s report called for the establishment of an accountability mechanism that could lead to sanctions for companies that don’t comply with the recommended standards. “The government is clearly not serious about ensuring that companies comply with high CSR standards,” says Mary Corkery, Executive Director of KAIROS-Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives. “Today’s announcement leaves mining affected communities with no recourse, as irresponsible corporate behaviour can continue with impunity.”

The consensus recommendations also called for the creation of an Ombudsman who could investigate complaints and report publicly on the results. “Today’s response undermines the principle of independent fact-finding, leaving investigations possible only at the behest of companies” says Karyn Keenan of the Halifax Initiative.

The consensus report recommended linking the provision of government financial and political support for Canadian extractive companies to compliance with environmental and human rights standards. The government’s failure to adopt this recommendation means that public funds will continue to support companies that don't comply with public values such as respect for human rights and protection of the environment.

The government strategy announced today fails to address the serious human rights and environmental abuses associated with Canadian extractive companies operating abroad. Canadian companies remain the subject of complaint in numerous international fora. Most recently, the Norwegian government divested from Barrick Gold due to the company’s contribution to “serious environmental damage.”

Media contacts:

Beth Berton-Hunter, Amnesty International, 416-363-9933, ext. 32

Adiat Junaid, KAIROS, 416-463-5312, ext. 223

Karyn Keenan, Halifax Initiative, 613-789-4447

Harper government states its position on corporate social responsibility

The Harper government has finally released its policy on corporate responsibility for the extractive sector. As you will see in subsequent posts, the NGO sector is extremely disappointed in this policy position.

Business & human rights: Weekly Update - March 18, 2009

Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 18 March 2009

CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/Topstories?date=2009/03/18

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* Intl. business orgs. IOE, ICC, BIAC re-confirm commitment to the work of UN Special Representative John Ruggie, offer assistance
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/447356

* Mutual fund manager Vanguard announces policy to avoid investments in companies involved in serious human rights abuses
- Investors Against Genocide welcomes move
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/166120

* Philippines: Reports allege Sagittarius Mines Inc (SMI) / Xstrata connected with killing of human rights activist Eliezer "Boy" Billanes
- SMI/Xstrata response
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/648018

* Clean Clothes Campaign report "Cashing in" says discount model leads to labour abuses at factories in Asia supplying Aldi, Carrefour, Lidl, Tesco, Wal-Mart
- responses by all five companies
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/CashingIn

* Guatemala: Natl. Labor Committee (US) alleges women workers' rights abused at Nicotex factory, supplying Lane Bryant (part of Charming Shoppes), Briggs New York (part of Kellwood)
- responses by Nicotex, Charming Shoppes, Kellwood
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/404910

* India: Petition says Himagiri Hydro Energy's Panan hydro-electric project will harm environment & Lepcha community's culture - calls for release of arrested activists
- response by Himagiri
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/239024

* UK: More than 40 construction firms allegedly bought personal data on workers to blacklist job applicants, including details of trade union activities
- Balfour Beatty response
- Costain, Sir Robert McAlpine did not respond
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/885550

* Czech Republic: Unicredit Bank launches program to encourage gender equality in the workplace
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/767885

* China: Thousands of gem cutters suffering from lung disease
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/172384

* World Water Day 2009 & related events: News & reports highlighting private sector dimension
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/Water2009

* USA: NAACP files lawsuits against HSBC, Wells Fargo alleging racism in mortgage lending
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/811562

* Norway's Govt. Pension Fund divests from Dongfeng Motor, due to sale of military trucks to Burma
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/733385

* USA: DiversityInc's "Top 50 Companies for Diversity" 2009
- Johnson & Johnson, AT&T, Ernst & Young, Marriott lead
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/668407

* Guatemala: BBC report on Goldcorp mine - human rights impact assessments underway
- concerns include pollution reportedly causing skin infections among local Mayans
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/973758

* Kazakhstan: First case of workplace religious discrimination is ruled in favour of worker
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/835042

* "Pharma Futures 3" looks at links between business models & health in Brazil, China, India, other countries
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/451599

* "Deadly ventures? Multinational corporations and paramilitaries in Colombia"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/318865

* Ukraine: UN Global Compact contest for journalism on business' social responsibility (deadline 30 Apr)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/590116

* Legal Accountability Portal: Update to profile of lawsuit against BP (re Colombia) -- new claims filed in UK on behalf of farmers allegedly affected by environmental damage
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/489842

* UK: Conference on company taxation, poverty & development, Univ. of East Anglia, 29 May
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/121117

* Upcoming event: Online conference on business contribution to peace building, 23 Mar - 22 May
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/426117

* Español: Guatemala: Reportaje sobre beneficios e impactos negativos de la mina Marlin de Montana Exploradora (Goldcorp)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/465682

* Español: Perú: Empresa de seguridad privada Business Track (BTR) espiaba a ONGs, ambientalistas y otros según la policía
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/544019

* Español: Colombia: Desplazados por la violencia vuelven a sus tierras en Chocó y encuentran empresas de palma en el lugar donde estaba su pueblo
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/256300

* Español: Nicaragua: Supuestos agentes de Dole Fruit acusados de chantajear a campesinos para obstaculizar demanda sobre afectación a la salud de bananeros
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/670894

* Español: España: Iberdrola firma plan con sindicatos que "garantizará la igualdad de trato" entre hombres y mujeres
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/835511

* Español: España: Sitio web de Expansión dedicado exclusivamente a noticias sobre empresas y mujeres
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/531382

* Español: Brasil: Arrestan a 4 activistas bolivianos en protesta contra represas del río Madera
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/594613

* Español: Ecuador: Gobierno anula permiso de Acción Ecológica - ONG dice que es por su rechazo a la Ley de Minería
- Ministra dice que el gobierno le "devolverá el permiso"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/807659

* Français : Algérie : La silicose de plus en plus répandue, surtout parmi les tailleurs de pierre
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/880972

* Français : Malaysie : ACCOR réclame qu'Interhill respecte des standards sociaux dans la construction d'un hôtel, à la suite d'une campagne de Bruno Manser Fonds
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/440786

* Français : Global Witness pousse les grandes banques à ne pas conclure des affaires avec les dictateurs & les gouvernements corrompus
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/512200

* Français : Coca-Cola investit 30 millions de dollars pour garantir l'accès à l'eau aux communautés africaines
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/807322

* Français : Le fonds norvégien exclu Dongfeng Motor pour avoir vendu du matériel militaire à la Birmanie
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/450299

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Business & human rights: Weekly Update - March 11, 2009

Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 11 March 2009

CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/Topstories?date=2009/03/11

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* Tanzania: Shootings by police at Barrick Gold’s North Mara mine in Dec & Jan leave 2 dead
- Barrick responds
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/602506

* Intl. Women's Day, 8 March: Reports & initiatives
- includes items on: Global gender pay gap (ITUC), Afghanistan, China, Mexico, UN Global Compact & UNIFEM event, impact of economic crisis on gender in the workplace (ILO), others
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/IntlWomensDay2009

* Cadbury to source cocoa from fair trade suppliers
- Global Exchange, Intl. Labor Rights Forum welcome move, call on US firms to follow suit
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/129618

* Independent Newmont-commissioned review calls on Newmont to better manage community relationships
- CEO commits to implementing its recommendations
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/275701

* Inquiry by UK Parliament's Joint Committee on Human Rights: Call for evidence on business & human rights (deadline 1 May)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/361763

* Global Witness urges banks not to do business with dictators & corrupt govts.
- full report mentions banks including Bank of China, Bank of East Asia, Barclays, BNP Paribas, Citibank, Deutsche Bank, Santander
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/529099

* Aim for Human Rights develops guide to assist companies in selecting appropriate human rights impact assessment tools
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/575896

* Kazakhstan: "Money Thrown to the Wind" documentary says oil firms' social projects bring limited benefits
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/441112

* "Human rights guidelines for pharmaceutical companies in relation to access to medicines: The sexual and reproductive health context", Paul Hunt and Rajat Khosla, Univ. of Essex
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/746960

* CSR Asia: Business needs to be part of any new approach to human rights abuses in Burma
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/730815

* QBE Insurance pulls out of Burma, following pressure by Burma Campaign UK
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/937670

* Burma: Indications that tightened US sanctions on gems are working
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/623871

* "Amsterdam Declaration": Global Reporting Initiative board calls on govts. to require greater corporate transparency on environmental, social, governance issues
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/700150

* Report on Business & Human Rights Intl. Seminar, Paris, 4 & 5 Dec 2008
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/950673

* Event: Panel on CSR & intl. law, launch of new book edited by Chip Pitts (19 Mar, McGill Univ., Montreal)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/365155

* Español: Ecuatorianos demandan en Canadá a Copper Mesa y la Bolsa de Toronto por violencia contra opositores de mina de cobre
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/713013

* Español: Chile: Ingenieros, ONGs y pueblos originarios rechazan ducto al mar de Celco-Arauco por impacto a la salud y al medio ambiente
- Celco dice que ducto no pasaría por zona urbana y desembocaría fuera de zona de protección
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/858699

* Español: México: "ISO 26000 y Derechos Laborales - Reflexiones y perspectivas desde las organizaciones sindicales y ciudadanas"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/101041

* Español: Argentina: Sindicato denuncia a empresas de seguridad por abusos laborales
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/688118

* Español: Perú: Documental sobre el acceso al agua supuestamente amenazado por Minera Majaz (video)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/613231

* Español: España: 21 empresas son suspendidas del Pacto Mundial por no informar sobre responsabilidad social
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/950053

* Español: Firstar Europe dice que hija de vicepresidenta de Zimbabue intentó venderles oro congoleño y que lo rechazaron por razones "éticas"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/612945

* Français : Cambodge : L’expulsion des habitants de Dey Krahom par 7NG condamnée par l’ONU & des ONGs des droits de l'homme
- Nous avons invité la compagnie à répondre - elle n’a pas répondu
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/401781

* Français : Nike impose des conditions à ses fournisseurs pour s'adresser à la possibilité du trafic de main-d’œuvre dans sa chaîne d'approvisionnement
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/183165

* Français : Poursuite en justice contre Copper Mesa et la bourse de Toronto au Canada pour avoir financé des présumés actes de violence en Equateur
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/760385

* Français : Le transport maritime explore des pistes pour réduire ses émissions de gaz à effet de serre
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/184632

* Français : Territoires occupés palestiniens : « Paradis » où les autorités israéliennes ne forcent pas les employeurs à respecter les normes environnementales et du travail
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/416305

* Français : France : Bilan des engagements des entreprises en matière d'égalité professionnelle homme/femme lors de la journée internationale des femmes
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/760385

* Français : Cameroun: Genesis Futuristic Technologies lance un projet de « télémédecine » pour les zones rurales mal desservies
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/139475

ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
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Business & human rights: Weekly Update - March 4, 2009

Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 4 March 2009

CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/Topstories?date=2009/03/04

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* Liberia: "Getting a Better Deal from the Extractive Sector" - Revenue Watch report on recent concessions negotiation
- forewords by Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, George Soros
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/834530

* UK Parliament's Joint Committee on Human Rights holds mini-conference on business & human rights, prior to inquiry
- presentation by Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
- presentation by Corporate Responsibility (CORE) Coalition
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/872203

* Uzbekistan: Human rights activists sue govt. for forcing children to work in cotton fields
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/161168

* Cambodia: 7NG Construction forcibly evicts 152 families from Dey Krahorm, Phnom Penh
- we invited 7NG to respond but it has not done so - articles include some comments by its Chairman
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/DeyKrahorm

* UK's Co-operative Financial Services helps fund legal action by aboriginal community against development of Canada's oil sands by companies such as Shell & BP
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/391971

* HP and others unveil conclusions of pilot project to tackle electronic waste in Africa, and next steps
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/677783

* Indonesia: Sidorajo mud volcano that displaced over 50,000: Natl. Human Rights Commission says likely triggered by gas project, cites abuses, may bring cases against private sector & govt.
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/183777

* Intl. Rivers Network says multi-stakeholder hydropower sustainability criteria are "a giant step backward from current rights & standards"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/966188

* Lawsuit in Canadian court against Copper Mesa and TMX Group over violence against communities in Ecuador protesting a copper mine
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/121913

* USA: "A human rights imperative": Arvind Ganesan of Human Rights Watch advocates passage of Employee Free Choice Act to make unions more accessible (radio commentary)
- other commentaries provided
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/960634

* Shashi Tharoor responds to letter criticising his membership of Coca-Cola Foundation Advisory Board - letter cited water issues in Kerala, India
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/858022

* "Managing water well": The role of the private sector in access to water
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/617773

* Intl. Commission of Jurists call for tenders: "Project on access to justice for human rights abuse involving corporations" - studies to be done for: Brazil, Colombia, Dem. Rep. of the Congo, India, Nigeria, Philippines, Poland (deadline 20 Mar)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/723175

* Diamonds' role in Zimbabwe repression - Partnership Africa Canada accuses Kimberley Process of "apathy"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/463358

* New coalition to tackle internet child porn: NGOs, MasterCard, Microsoft, PayPal, VISA involved
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/876228

* Summary profile of lawsuits against Pfizer over drug trials in Kano, Nigeria
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/286416

* CAFOD comments on BHP Billiton response to its "Kept in the Dark" report on Philippines mining project (further to our 12 Nov 2008 Update)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/850270

* Liberia: Poor working conditions found at ArcelorMittal contractors including Odebrecht (railroad construction), Segal (security) - but possibility of improvements
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/587122

* USA: Report finds persistent racial discrimination by real estate brokers on Long Island, New York
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/934722

* Colombia: NGOs welcome partial return of land to Afro-Colombians displaced by armed forces, paramilitaries and palm oil firms
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/993819

* India: NGO asks Kerala Govt. to compensate families of migrant workers allegedly burned to death by labour contractor
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/259021

* Reply from NGOs to Sir Mark Moody-Stuart regarding UN Global Compact, PetroChina and Sudan
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/739060

* Russia: Criminal proceedings over death of 2 workers at mine owned by Sibirskiy Delovoy Soyuz (our summary translation of Russian original)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/693250

* Upcoming event: Monrovia, Liberia: Intl. colloquium on promoting women's economic empowerment through right to decent work (8 March)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/523536

* Job announcement: Senior Programme Officer, Corporate Engagement, Intl. Alert - London (deadline 31 Mar)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/243126

* Job announcement: Manager, CSR Europe - Brussels (deadline 15 Mar)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/173743

* Español: Argentina: Piden que se investigue si AySA está contaminando el Riachuelo
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/248029

* Español: Guatemala: Queman bus y golpean pasajeros en conexión a protestas contra planta de Cementos Progreso
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/802749

* Español: Otra universidad en EE.UU. rompe con firma de ropa Russell, cuestionada por derechos laborales en Honduras (ya van 9 universidades)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/973811

* Español: México: Por lo menos 15 empresas en Aguascalientes integran a discapacitados en su lista laboral
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/974993

* Español: Colombia: Central Unitaria de Trabajadores rechaza que protección de amenazados pase a empresas privadas de seguridad
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/905147

* Español: Panamá: Vecinos de empresa ENSOL piden su cierre debido a "afectaciones" por gases tóxicos
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/613301

* Español: Bolivia: Gobierno decreta que empresas no podrán despedir trabajadores con hijos de hasta 1 año
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/662567

* Español: Colombia: Unión Fenosa aporta becas parciales para educación superior de jóvenes pobres
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/535874

* Español: EarthRights publica detalles sobre las inversiones en Birmania de empresas Chinas - dice que "proporcionan apoyo financiero a la junta militar"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/235347

* Français : Représentants de peuples indigènes du Niger, d'Australie et des Etats-Unis alertent des parlementaires américains des dangers de l'extraction de l'uranium
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/805614

* Français : Inde : Ikea donne $48 millions au programme de l'UNICEF pour la santé et la survie de l'enfant
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/874873

* Français : Nigeria : Le torchage pratiqué par les compagnies pétrolières est un « désastre écologique et économique », selon un article d'AFP
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/198748

* Français : Rép. Dém. du Congo : Rapport d'un atelier de formation sur le développement durable dans l'exploitation pétrolière et minière
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/712659

ARCHIVE of past Weekly Updates / ARCHIVO de actualizaciones pasadas / ARCHIVE des Actualités hebdomadaires précédentes:
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Business & human rights: Weekly Update - February 18, 2009

From the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre:

Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 18 February 2009

CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/Topstories?date=2009/02/18

Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous

* GlaxoSmithKline CEO pledges major new initiative to cut prices of medicines for the poor - challenges other firms to follow suit
- reactions by Oxfam, Médecins Sans Frontières, others
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/829887

* Mae Tay (Taiwan) response to "High Tech Misery in China" - report alleging abuses at its computer equipment factory (further to last week's Update)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/NLCFeb2009

* US overseas investment agencies pledge to consider climate impacts of projects they finance, in settlement of lawsuit brought by environmental NGOs
- Friends of the Earth: "Landmark Global Warming Lawsuit Settled"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/155014

* Indonesia: Alleged labour abuses at factory supplying Pierre Cardin underwear
- Pierre Cardin response
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/497233

* China: Profile of Ma Jun, environmental advocate exposing polluting companies
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/144589

* Peru: Journalist pursuing complaint about torture at Rio Blanco mining site receives death threats - Amnesty Intl. issues urgent action (further to our 4 & 11 Feb Updates)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/882517

* Russia: Indigenous Evenks, environmentalists concerned over impacts of proposed RusHydro dam
- RusHydro says it will release report during 2009 on potential impacts
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/398064

* International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) urges EU to implement stronger business & human rights measures
- also: Recommendations to European Multi-stakeholder Forum on CSR by other NGOs, business orgs.
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/323653

* Mexico: NGO report "Mining in Chiapas" on risks for indigenous peoples
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/342956

* Ghana: New implementation manual for Ghana Business Code, based on UN Global Compact principles
- 120 companies have signed the code
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/528246

* USA: Human Rights Campaign finds growing number of companies protecting transgender rights
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/936053

* US court hears appeal of dismissed lawsuits against CACI, L-3 Titan over alleged involvement in Abu Ghraib abuses
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/194490

* AT Kearney study says companies scaling back environmental initiatives due to economic crisis should "think twice"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/895264

* Private Equity Council members adopt responsible investment guidelines - covering environmental, health, safety, labour, governance, social issues
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/511415

* US Campaign for Burma calls on consumers to help find Burmese rubies in jewellery stores
- refers to positive steps by Leber Jeweler, Tiffany, Jewelers of America
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/590937

* Global Reporting Initiative invites comments on sustainability guidelines for mining industry - deadline 29 Apr
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/380800

* Job posting: Human Rights Licensee Administrator, Phillips-Van Heusen - New York
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/921521

* Job posting: Human Rights Associate, Eileen Fisher apparel - Irvington, New York
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/990988

* Español: Perú: Periodista que denunció torturas en campo minero Río Blanco recibe amenazas de muerte (en continuación a las Actualizaciones del 4 & 11 de febrero)
- Amnistía Internacional emite "acción urgente"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/447636

* Español: México: Conferencia sobre "violaciones de derechos laborales" en Walmex (18 feb)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/840651

* Español: GlaxoSmithKline se compromete a poner sus drogas al alcance de los más pobres del mundo - anima a otras empresas a seguir su iniciativa
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/651533

* Español: Colombia: Introducción de nuevo libro sobre empresas militares y de seguridad privadas - "¿una nueva forma de mercenarismo?"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/375811

* Español: México: CFE acepta que no puede construir la presa La Parota pues los pueblos afectados no la han aprobado
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/640347

* Español: Chile: Después de fallo adverso en la Corte Suprema, ecologistas anuncian que recurrirán a Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos contra proyecto de represas en la Patagonia
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/406331

* Español: Perú: Piden sanción para Casapalca por derrumbe que sepultó a 5 mineros
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/839825

* Español: Colombia: Presidente exige que todas las minas cumplan con requisitos de seguridad industrial y social después de muerte de 4 trabajadores
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/483581

* Français : Indonésie : Allégations des violations des droits du travail à une usine qui fabrique des sous-vêtements Pierre Cardin
- Réponse de Pierre Cardin
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/681889

* Français : Dexia, Alstom, Veolia tirent profit de la colonisation de la Cisjordanie par Israël, selon La Tribune
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/505746

* Français : GlaxoSmithKline s'engage à faire les médicaments plus abordables dans les pays pauvres
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/374679

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Business & human rights: Weekly Update - Feburary 12, 2009

From the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre:

Weekly Update: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - 11 February 2009

CLICK THIS LINK FOR ALL TOP STORIES added past 7 days / Principales noticias / Articles de premier plan:
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Categories/Topstories?date=2009/02/11

Español: ver abajo - Français : voir ci-dessous

* India: Coal India responds to allegations of hazardous mining practices (further to our 28 Jan Update)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/718362

* "High Tech Misery in China": Natl. Labor Committee (US) alleges labour abuses at keyboard factory supplying Dell, HP, IBM, Lenovo, Microsoft
- Responses by Dell, HP, IBM, Lenovo, Microsoft
- We are inviting the factory to respond, and will indicate in a future Weekly Update if it does or not
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Documents/NLCFeb2009

* "Business & Human Rights in South Africa": Working paper by Natl. Business Initiative
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/840958

* Ghana: Public Eye Awards name Newmont "2009 Worst Company" over proposed mining project that critics say would displace thousands, pollute soil & rivers
- Newmont response
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/514424

* Intl. criminal liability for corporations:
- papers by Prof. Andrew Clapham & Prof. Thomas Weigend
- discussion with Ken Roth of Human Rights Watch, James Cockayne of Intl. Peace Institute, others
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/394170

* Lesotho: Apparel industry initiative including Chinese-owned factories, Gap & other brands brings AIDS drugs to factory workers
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/558328

* Letter from Sir Mark Moody Stuart to NGOs regarding UN Global Compact, PetroChina, Sudan
- Commentary by the NGOs - welcome the fact the Global Compact board will discuss the matter "fully"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/415476

* USA: Lawsuit against Boeing unit Jeppesen over "torture flights" - appeal of dismissal by lower court; Obama administration argues case should be dismissed permanently to protect "state secrets"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/598213

* USA: Chevron renews lobbying efforts to end Ecuador's preferential trade status over indigenous lawsuit
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/159605

* Peru: Congress to investigate security firm Forza over alleged beating & torture of protesters (further to our last Update)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/281968

* Russia: Human Rights Watch report says migrant construction workers face serious abuses
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/892723

* "Stabilization Clauses and Human Rights": Summary of consultation by UN Special Representative John Ruggie, Johannesburg, 21 Oct 2008
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/988703

* UK: New legislation to curb abuses by UK companies overseas? Debate between Peter Frankental of Amnesty Intl., Peter Davis of Ethical Corporation
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/478913

* Call for tenders: Ethical investment screening for Norwegian Govt. Pension Fund (deadline 3 Mar)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/608702

* Cambodia: Global Witness says opportunity to alleviate poverty squandered by corruption in oil & mining sectors
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/350304

* New book: "Corporate Accountability in International Environmental Law"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/967126

* USA: Clifford Chance and Georgetown Univ. sponsor fellowships for disadvantaged law students who wish to serve intl. community
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/618111

* OECD Guidelines case against Afrimex re Dem. Rep. of Congo - analysis by Jernej Cernic, Univ. of Aberdeen
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/657671

* Swedish International Development Cooperation report: "Making Climate Your Business - Private Sector Adaptation in Southeast Asia"
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/643979

* Indonesia: World Resources Institute & NewPage Corp. join to preserve forests, reducing greenhouse gas emissions & protecting traditional livelihoods
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/780837

* Job postings: CSR positions at A.P. Moller - Maersk Group (deadline 24 Feb)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/853843

* Español: Perú: Congreso investigará a Forza por su supuesto rol en torturas y golpizas de protestantes (en continuación a la Actualización pasada)
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/383868

* Español: España: Estudio revela serias discrepancias entre los informes financieros y los de sostenibilidad de las empresas del Ibex 35
- incluye informe de conclusiones completo
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/766111

* Español: Nicaragua: Ex-cañeros acusan a Grupo Pellas de co-responsabilidad en muertes por uso de agrotóxicos - empresa lo niega
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/866688

* Español: Argentina: Inspecciones y multas a empresas que emplean niños dan resultado en Mendoza
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/392562

* Español: Guatemala: Reporte de la Confederación Sindical Internacional dice que hay violenta represión contra trabajadores
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/767815

* Español: Perú: Denuncian supuesto acuerdo por derrame de mercurio de Minera Yanacocha
- respuesta de Yanacocha sobre la situación en Choropampa
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/220733

* Español: España: Cemex firma convenio para evaluar posibles riesgos a la salud y al ambiente de cambio de combustible
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/345313

* Español: España: 107 trabajadoras andaluzas fueron despedidas en 2008 debido a su maternidad
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/584252

* Français : Canada : Parti Québécois demande un moratoire sur l'uranium face aux questions sur les effets sur la santé & l'environnement
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/623572

* Français : Rapport de Global Witness "Le Cambodge à vendre" dénonce la gestion des ressources minières et pétrolières par une élite corrompue
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/644136

* Français : Projet « Green Zone » de Hyundai lutte contre la pauvreté en agissant contre la désertification en Chine
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/984948

* Français : Guatemala : Répression violente contre les travailleurs, selon la Confédération syndicale internationale
http://www.business-humanrights.org/Links/Repository/305859

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