NIHR Participates in the Third Arab Forum on Business and Human Rights in Jordan
Eng. Ali Ahmed Alderazi, Chairperson of the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), participated in the opening session of the Third Arab Forum on Business and Human Rights, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Arab Network of National Human Rights Institutions. The forum is being hosted by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on 17–18 June 2026 under the theme: “Advancing Responsible Business Conduct: Human Rights at the Core of Sustainable Development in the Arab States.”
In his opening remarks, Alderazi emphasized that respect for human rights is no longer merely an ethical choice, but has become an essential component of sustainable development, responsible investment, and good governance. He stressed that sustainable economic development cannot be achieved without safeguarding human dignity and fundamental rights.
He noted that previous Arab dialogues on business and human rights have contributed to strengthening cooperation and the exchange of expertise, resulting in important recommendations calling for the implementation of the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the development of National Action Plans with the participation of all relevant stakeholders, and the enhancement of legislative frameworks and policies that support the protection of human rights.
He also underscored the importance of companies adopting effective human rights due diligence policies, assessing the impacts of their activities, and addressing any potential violations in accordance with relevant international standards. He expressed the Arab Network’s aspiration that the forum would further strengthen regional cooperation, facilitate the exchange of good practices, and produce practical recommendations that support the creation of a business environment that respects human rights and contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The forum brings together representatives of governments, national human rights institutions, civil society organizations, the private sector, and international and regional organizations to discuss key business and human rights issues in the Arab region.
The event is organized by the National Centre for Human Rights of Jordan in partnership with several international and regional organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), UNICEF, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the Arab Network of National Human Rights Institutions, in cooperation with the United Nations Working Group on Business and Human Rights.
