NEWS

14.05.07
Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights Plenary adopts formal participation criteria

The Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPs) adopted formal participation criteria at its plenary last week, which was held on 7-8 May and hosted by the U.S Department of State.

The criteria articulate the responsibilities of current and future VPs members and are intended to strengthen the principles by fostering greater accountability on part of all the VPs participants.

In addition, the new criteria preserve a commitment by participants to report publicly on their implementation of the VPs or their support for implementation once formal reporting criteria are finalized.

Last year the requirement that companies may only join the process if their home government also participate was dropped. This has the potential to significantly expand the Voluntary Principles membership.

The Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPs) are a unique tripartite, multi-stakeholder initiative established in 2000 that introduced a set of principles to guide extractives companies in maintaining the safety and security of their operations within an operating framework that ensures respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The three main areas that the Voluntary Principles address are risk assessment; interactions between companies and public security; and interactions between companies and private security.

News home

RELATED PUBLICATIONS

GRI Mining and Metals Sector Supplement
Read more
Download PDF

RELATED LINKS

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

Principle 10:

Implement effective and transparent engagement, communication and independently verified reporting arrangements with our stakeholders.

© International Council on Mining and Metals 2011 │Terms and Conditions │Privacy Policy