InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – Business activities not only bring economic benefits to society but also hold the potential for human rights violations. This was revealed by Roichatul Aswidah, a Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) for the 2012–2017 period and a business and human rights practitioner, during a public discussion by Visi Integritas and MSW Law Office, attended by InfoSAWIT on Tuesday (9/2/2025).
According to Roichatul, business has great power, both technologically and financially. Its positive impacts are clear, from job creation to contributions to economic development. However, on the other hand, business operations often cause negative impacts, especially related to environmental issues, land conflicts, and violations of workers' rights.
"The 2023 Komnas HAM report shows that the most common public complaints are related to land disputes, labor disputes, especially concerning wages, and environmental issues. The two most prominent sectors are plantations and mining," she explained.
Roichatul added that global efforts to regulate the relationship between business and human rights refer to the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), released by the UN in 2011. This document establishes three main pillars: the state's obligation to protect human rights, the corporation's obligation to respect human rights throughout every supply chain, and access to remedy for victims of violations.
For companies, she continued, the implementation of human rights principles requires a clear policy, due diligence, and remediation mechanisms. Due diligence includes identifying risks, prevention, and corrective actions if violations occur. "This process must be carried out periodically and involve stakeholders, especially vulnerable groups who are most likely to be affected," she said.
Roichatul emphasized that the involvement of the community, workers, consumers, and those directly affected is key to preventing discriminatory and criminalizing practices. In this way, business not only becomes an economic driver but is also able to uphold respect for human rights. (T2)
