LocationsUNDP brings together partners to advance human rights in Mongolia’s businesses
March 29, 2024
Ulaanbaatar, 29 March 2024 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia and UNDP’s Business and Human Rights (B+HR) Asia Programme, supported by the European Union, co-organized a multi-stakeholder meeting on “Business and Human Rights.” The meeting featured best practices of responsible business conducts in which human rights are respected and remedy mechanisms are provided by private sector in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. It brought together a diverse group of participants from the public and private sectors, including businesses, business associations, development partners, civil society organizations, and academic institutions.
Mongolia became the fourth country in the Asia-Pacific region to adopt National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR) in 2023, underscoring its commitment to promoting responsible business conduct and upholding human rights and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The discussions during the meeting revolved around the opportunities, challenges, and advancements of the NAPBHR, which is set for implementation from 2023 to 2027. This plan aims to improve the legal framework, offer practical guidance through human rights due diligence tools, enhance stakeholder capacities, and strengthen access to remedy mechanisms.
“The National Action Plan is not just a policy choice; it's a strategic instrument for Mongolia. It represents our commitment to building a business environment where human rights are not only respected but are a foundation of corporate governance. Successful implementation will be crucial in our vision for a sustainable and equitable future." stated the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Ankhbayar Nyamdorj, during his opening remarks.
UNDP's B+HR Asia Programme, supported by the European Union, significantly contributed to the development of the NAPBHR, under the leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The programme focuses on promoting awareness and facilitating the plan's implementation by encouraging businesses to engage in human rights due diligence and creating people and planet-friendly workplaces. It also supports civil society organizations in advocating the UN Guiding Principles in Mongolia through small projects using innovative approaches aimed at exploring potential remedies and prevention strategies, and capacity-building workshops for stakeholders to ensure effective implementation.
Mr. Christophe Forax, Charge d’affaires a.i of the Delegation of the European Union to Mongolia, stated “Mongolia is at the beginning of a long and challenging journey to implement its National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. The strong support and active participation of all stakeholders, including the business community, civil society, the parliament, and all government entities are essential in that respect. The European Union is a strong supporter of Mongolia’s Business and Human Rights Agenda, which reflects our shared commitment to human rights and sustainable development, ensuring that economic growth and social progress are inclusive and leave no one behind.”
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Mongolia, Ms. Lin Cao stated, “UNDP remains committed to working with all our partners to ensure successful implementation of National Action Plan towards an inclusive, sustainable and prosperous Mongolia where profit and prosperity go hand in hand with compassion and respect for human rights.”
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About UNDP
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.
For further inquiries:
Erdenesukh Otgonbayar | Communications Analyst | UNDP in Mongolia | erdenesukh.otgonbayar@undp.org
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