The first session of the Business and Human Rights Accelerator took place at the UN House in Moscow as part of the UN Global Compact program. The session participants included representatives fr om leading Russian companies.

The session focused on introducing the topic of human rights and the role of business in their observance. Rashid Aluash, UN representative and coordinator of the joint program with the Russian Federation, delivered the opening speech and a detailed presentation. He provided an overview of the international human rights protection system, describing key documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, international covenants, and specialized conventions (including those concerning the rights of women, children, people with disabilities, migrants, and others). It was emphasized that human rights are universal, indivisible, interrelated, and inalienable, and that states bear responsibility for respecting, protecting, and fulfilling these rights.

The session paid special attention to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), which today serve as the international standard for corporate responsibility. Participants were introduced to the concept of Corporate Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD), which involves systematically assessing and preventing human rights risks, monitoring the effectiveness of implemented measures, and ensuring public reporting.

Viktor Davydov, Director of Environmental and Social Consulting at ENSOR, presented the Russian context for human rights compliance in the corporate environment. Specific examples were provided to illustrate the importance of integrating human rights approaches into strategic management and day-to-day operations.

The participants were also presented with the overall plan for the Accelerator program, which includes six modules: from basic understanding of principles to implementing legal protection mechanisms and effective stakeholder engagement. As part of the program, companies will conduct self-assessments, develop their own action plans, and gain access to expert support and educational materials from the UN Global Compact Academy.

The session concluded with an active discussion, wh ere participants shared their expectations from the program and formulated the first steps for adapting international standards to their corporate practices. The main takeaway from the meeting was that human rights compliance is not only an international norm but also a factor of sustainable development, competitiveness, and business reputation.

Session materials can be accessed via the link (available only to Accelerator participants).