The knowledge and work of indigenous peoples and communities, as well as activists working on issues of environmental protection, the climate crisis and corporate accountability, are vital for humanity to live more responsibly and sustainably. Despite this, such people and communities are being killed and displaced by both irresponsible governments and unscrupulous corporations for their work to prevent exploitation, to protect precious forests and oceans, and to ensure that development is sustainable and inclusive.
Through this programme, ISHR provides solidarity and support to defenders working on issues of environmental justice, corporate responsibility and accountability, and sustainable and inclusive development. We also seek to ensure that businesses and other non-State actors are effectively regulated with respect to human rights and HRDs, consult with and become positive advocates for HRDs, take action to respect and contribute to the protection of HRDs, refrain from actions that restrict or violate their rights, and are held accountable when they fail to do so.