COVID-19 and Human Rights: Protection of the Most Vulnerable

The COVID-19 crisis is testing the world’s humanity and resilience at a time that is already marked by acute inequality. With the socioeconomic impacts of the pandemic hitting vulnerable and marginalized groups particularly hard, business can step up to support communities in need.

“Our response to this epidemic must encompass — and in fact, focus on — those whom society often neglects or relegates to a lesser status. Otherwise, it will fail. The health of every person is linked to the health of the most marginalized members of the community,” the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, urged in mid-March.

Without sufficient resources to protect themselves from health risks, access healthcare or pay for essential goods, many will find themselves in precarious situations. With the alarming loss of jobs across the world, the number of people in such situations will inevitably be on the rise.

This Academy session will spotlight actions companies can take to support human rights and join in the fight against COVID-19. Through best practice examples and insights from human rights experts, session attendees will learn how business can play a key role and stand up for the most vulnerable and marginalized both during this pandemic and beyond.

Speakers:

- Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights

- H.E. Anisul Huq, Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, People’s Republic of Bangladesh

- Roberto Marques, Executive Chairman of the Board and CEO, Natura &Co