Special Representative of the Secretary-General on human rights and transnational corporations and other business enterprises

Regional Consultations

In carrying out his mandate, the SRSG has been particularly concerned that the voices of the global South be heard in and contribute to the deliberations. At his initiative, the SRSG is convening a series of regional meetings
(1) aimed at getting regional inputs and perspectives on the issues covered by the mandate from all relevant stakeholder groups;
(2) contributing to the ongoing discussions in different regions about the responsibilities of business with regard to human rights; and finally,
(3) discussing issues within the mandate that are particularly relevant to specific regional contexts.

The first such regional consultation took place in South Africa on 27-28 March 2006.

The second regional consultation too place in Bangkok, Thailand, on 26-27 June 2006. The meeting focused on the challenges of establishing credible accountability mechanisms in supply chains, with a particular emphasis on the footwear and apparel, toys, and consumer electronics sectors. The meeting also included one extended session during which participants could provide input and comments on any other issues related to the SRSG's mandate.

A third regional consultation took place in Colombia on 18-19 January 2007. The multi-stakeholder consultation focused on how companies can establish and maintain a social license to operate with regard to local communities, in particular indigenous peoples.