The UK Government has launched a National Baseline Assessment (NBA) to evaluate how well the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) are being implemented across the UK. This marks a pivotal moment to help shape future policy and practice on human rights.
Commissioned by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and led by Nottingham Rights Lab, the NBA will assess the UK’s performance across the three pillars of the UNGPs:
- State Duty to Protect: Government efforts to ensure businesses respect human rights
- Business Responsibility to Respect: How businesses respect human rights in operations and supply chains
- Access to Remedy: Mechanisms for those affected by human rights abuses
The assessment also explores human rights risks and abuses linked to UK business activities, both domestically and overseas. It will inform future legal, policy, and institutional options, and help identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
Your Voice Matters
Business Fights Poverty are invited to contribute via a survey and written consultation, open until 14 November 2025. Whether you’re a micro-enterprise or a multinational business, an NGO, an academic, or anything in between, your insights are vital. You can respond to any or all sections and choose between completing the survey or submitting more detailed input.
UK implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
This is a chance to demonstrate leadership, share best practices, and help build a more just and sustainable business environment.
A Call for Purposeful Collaboration
The NBA is a prime example of how government, academia, and business can work together to advance human rights. We encourage everyone to participate. Your contribution will help shape the future of responsible business in the UK.
If you have questions, contact the Rights Lab research team at: Ka**************@no********.uk
