HUMAN RIGHTS AND BUSINESS

Brazil's responsibility before the Interamerican Court of Human Rights

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between human rights and businesses, highlighting the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the responsibility of the Brazilian State before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) in cases of violations committed in the context of business operations. The article first discusses the impact of globalization and the development of CSR, before outlining the shared obligations of states and corporations to respect human rights and protect the environment in the Anthropocene era. It presents the development of CSR within the United Nations, including the UN Global Compact and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, known as the Ruggie Principles, highlighting the concept of corporate responsibility for human rights (CRHR). The terms TBL and ESG, which are widely used in CSR management, are also explored. Finally, the article presents two condemnations of the Brazilian State before the IACHR, as well as the position of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). These cases (Workers of the Fazenda Brasil Verde v. Brazil and Workers of the Fireworks Factory of Santo Antônio de Jesus and their Families v. Brazil) highlight the link between states and corporations in the promotion of human rights. It concludes that the link between human rights and business is inseparable, as the integration of human rights into business practices throughout the production chain affects both the reputation and sustainability of companies and plays a key role in the potential international responsibility of States. In terms of methodology, this work is qualitative, descriptive and analytical, based on a literature review and documentary research.