Business and Human Rights

The HRI aims to reshape the thinking of governments and businesses on the role of the private sector in strengthening human rights protections around the world, raising expectations of companies to respect international norms, and pressing for accountability by governments when they do not

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Photo: pixelfusion3d/Getty Images

Photo: pixelfusion3d/Getty Images

A Global Forced Labor Import Regime Is Emerging—Can It Work?

USTR announced sweeping tariffs across 60 economies to address unfair trade practices related to the importation of forced labor-made goods. This presents significant opportunities for promoting workers' rights as well as potentially dire risks to those same rights.

Critical Questions by Laura T. Murphy — July 31, 2026

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A Global Forced Labor Import Regime Is Emerging—Can It Work?

USTR announced sweeping tariffs across 60 economies to address unfair trade practices related to the importation of forced labor-made goods. This presents significant opportunities for promoting workers' rights as well as potentially dire risks to those same rights.

Critical Questions by Laura T. Murphy — July 31, 2026

Ending Forced Labor: Comparing EU and U.S. Approaches

The European Union’s new Forced Labor Regulation joins U.S. import bans in targeting goods made with forced labor. The effectiveness of both approaches will depend on credible enforcement, strong due diligence and reporting mechanisms, and meaningful worker engagement.   

Commentary by Samira Rafaela and Kelly Fay Rodríguez — July 20, 2026

Ocean Security and Human Rights Forum

Join the CSIS Stephenson Ocean Security Project and Human Rights Initiative for the Ocean Security and Human Rights Forum on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

Event — June 9, 2026

Commercial Diplomacy Needs Good Governance

Can commercial diplomacy work without corresponding good governance efforts? Corruption, labor rights violations, and general poor governance impede business operations. Who will help improve governance in countries where U.S. companies make deals?

Commentary by Andrew Friedman — August 7, 2025

Ocean Security and Human Rights Forum

Join to learn about the changing nature of US ocean policy between the Trump and Biden Administrations and how these changes will affect regional security relationships and our ability to secure domestic supply chains to ensure fair markets and support labor rights at home and abroad.

Event — June 5, 2025