Exploring western multinational enterprises' perceptions and challenges in implementing human rights principles
: towards a practical facilitator model

  • Imke Collmann (Student)

Student thesis: Master's Thesis

Abstract

This master's thesis explores the perceptions of Western MNEs towards human rights and the major challenges they encounter in implementing these principles across their global operations. While comprehensive international frameworks such as the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) exist to provide guidance, many MNEs struggle to integrate these standards into their day-to-day business activities. Through qualitative research, including expert interviews, this study explores the complexities and nuances of the implementation of human rights principles within MNEs. The findings highlight significant gaps between strategic intent and on-the-ground implementation, often driven by factors such as the intricate structure of global supply chains, legal and cultural variations across jurisdictions, local labor laws, societal norms and resource constraints that limit the ability of companies to enforce human rights consistently across all tiers of operations. To address these challenges, a practical facilitator model is proposed, offering actionable recommendations in three key areas: "Governance and Strategy," "Operational Implementation and Resources," and "Stakeholder Engagement and Accountability." By focusing on these three pillars, the model aims to provide MNEs with concrete strategies for bridging the gap between commitment to human rights and their effective practice, ensuring that their operations are better aligned with international standards while navigating the complexities of global business environments. Through the implementation of this model, MNEs can proactively address human rights risks, mitigate adverse impacts, and contribute to sustainable and ethical global business practices.
Date of Award23 Oct 2024
Original languageEnglish
Awarding Institution
  • Universidade Católica Portuguesa
SupervisorSérgio Moreira (Supervisor)

Keywords

  • Multinational enterprises
  • Human rights
  • UNGPs
  • Business ethics
  • Corporate responsibility
  • Implementation challenges
  • Practical framework

Designation

  • Mestrado em Gestão e Administração de Empresas (mestrado internacional)

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