2006, Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights
This site is designed to raise awareness of the Voluntary Principles, which have been developed to guide companies in balancing the needs for safety while respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. On the site you will find the full text of the Voluntary Principles. You can also learn about the participants from government agencies, private companies, and non-governmental organizations.
Governments of the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Norway, companies in the extractive and energy sectors ("Companies"), and non-governmental organizations ("NGOs"), all with an interest in human rights and corporate social responsibility, have engaged in a dialogue on security and human rights.
The participants recognize the importance of the promotion and protection of human rights throughout the world and the constructive role business and civil society -- including non-governmental organizations, labor/trade unions, and local communities -- can play in advancing these goals. Through this dialogue, the participants have developed the following set of voluntary principles to guide Companies in maintaining the safety and security of their operations within an operating framework that ensures respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Mindful of these goals, the participants agree to the importance of continuing this dialogue and keeping under review these principles to ensure their continuing relevance and efficacy.
