Business and Human Rights in the Data Economy. A Mapping and Research Study.

This study identifies novel challenges for human rights protection emerging from data-driven busi- ness conduct. It offers an overview of the current policy debate and emerging best practices for business to mitigate the impacts of data-driven business on human rights. A strong emphasis lies on the dynamic interlinkages between human rights issues in a data ecosystem, in particular addressing systemic bias in data models and es- tablishing genuine stakeholder engagement.
This mapping study serves as a conversation start- er and aims at raising awareness regarding the data economy’s impact on human rights. On the one hand, the study could be used in a public poli- cy context, e.g. to convince ministerial staff that “digital” human rights issues should also be part of National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights, or why the EU Digital Strategy can benefit from a rights-based approach. On the other hand, companies can use the study to engage in a dia- logue with senior management on why a rights- based approach is relevant and should be main- streamed across business, e.g. for a product counsel or a public affairs specialist. The study thus provides exploratory guidance for human rights impact and risk assessments and human rights due diligence. It addresses some core phe- nomena and technologies of the data economy and situates them within the social, cultural, and political contexts that explain their effects on human rights.