Conference Agenda

The objective of this workshop is to deepen our understanding of how public policy and government action is impacting business implementation of human rights obligations, and to explore future research avenues that could lead to improved societal outcomes. This workshop provides a unique forum for scholars to connect around a wide range of business and human rights (BHR) topics that are being addressed conceptually and/or empirically, with a focus on identifying and prioritising the most pressing themes for the BHR research agenda. The workshop will begin with a panel featuring BHR experts who will discuss key emerging issues in BHR research related to the interaction between governments and firms in this realm, as well as future research possibilities related to how businesses are adapting to increasing human rights requirements. A Q&A session will follow, inviting audience participation in a discussion of priorities for the BHR research agenda. Second, there will be research development roundtables open to scholars at all stages of their careers—from doctoral students to early-career and established academics. These roundtables are designed to provide participants with expert feedback on early-stage research proposals (conceptual and/or empirical). Our primary goal for this workshop is to facilitate further development of BHR research projects among participants, thereby strengthening our expanding community of scholars. By focusing on research priorities that enhance understanding of the role of business and government in implementation of human rights in business practices, we aim to foster research that has a tangible impact on society.