Normativity, Ethics, and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights: A Critical Assessment
Journal
Journal of Human Rights
ISSN
1475-4835
ISSN-Digital
1475-4843
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2015-06-11
Author(s)
Abstract
This article critically assesses the work of the UN Special Representative for Business and Human Rights (SRSG) John Ruggie. The article adopts a normative perspective on the issue. Thus, its critique is derived from the standpoint of ethics. The SRSG was instrumental in shifting the burden of proof to those who deny corporate human rights responsibilities. This achievement, however, is relativized by the very restrictive interpretation of such responsibilities, both in terms of their scope as well as the normative force assigned to them. Finally, the article explores and analyzes the SRSG's relative reluctance to address and engage with ethical categories more explicitly. It outlines the dangers and blind spots that may result from this reluctance and reflects on the role that ethics can, and perhaps should, play in the broader debate on business and human rights.
Language
English
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Publisher
Carfax
Publisher place
London
Volume
14
Number
2
Start page
162
End page
182
Pages
21
Subject(s)
Eprints ID
242858
File(s)![Thumbnail Image]()
Name
Wettstein - Normativity, Ethics and UN GPs_JHR.pdf
Size
188.71 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
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