We are delighted to invite you to the first London event of the Business and Human Rights Lawyers Association (BHRLA) to discuss the role of business and human rights (BHR) and of commercial lawyers in the 'just transition'.
The Sharm El-Sheikh Implementation Plan agreed at COP 27 recognises that the urgent action required to address climate change must also support a transition to net zero that is both just and inclusive, while minimising negative social or economic impacts. The plan emphasises that a "just and equitable transition encompasses pathways that include energy, socioeconomic, workforce and other dimensions" (para. 29). The newly minted Kumming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework expressly provides that its implementation "should follow a human rights-based approach".
Though the notion of 'just transition' is broadly defined, essential components – stakeholder engagement, protection of the vulnerable, and a proactive understanding of how people's rights can be negatively impacted by state policies and business activities - are also components of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP).
Roger Leese, Partner, Clifford Chance, will lead a panel discussion with Vanessa Havard-Williams, Partner and Global Head of Environment & Climate Change, Linklaters, Andrea Saldariagga, Director, Social and Environmental Policy, Barclays, and Anna Triponel, Founder and Advisor, Human Level.
The panel will explore the relevance of business and human rights frameworks to the just transition and the lawyer's role in advising their clients. The panel will consider the differing policy approaches and legislative initiatives within the European Union and the United Kingdom: to what extent do they expressly and effectively address the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss whilst also promoting the concept of a just transition in which no-one is left behind?
The agenda for the event:
6pm: Introduction from Rae Lindsay, Partner, Clifford Chance LLP and Co-Chair of the BHRLA
6:10pm: Panel Discussion and Q&A
7pm – 8pm: Reception
To register for the event, click here
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Contact: sarah.mealing@cliffordchance.com
This in-person event will take place at:
Clifford Chance LLP, 10 Upper Bank Street, London, E14 5JJ
The BHRLA has been established to inspire and advance business and human rights leadership, learning, collaboration and practice among commercial law firms and business lawyers around the world. We are keen to expand and broaden our membership and participation across the commercial legal sector. For more information on the BHRLA and how to join, please see our website here.