Companies have the responsibility to respect human rights. In their business operations, they must identify (risks of) violations, prevent them and provide redress if violations have occurred. This applies to their own company and direct business relations but also to the entire supply chain in which they operate. This responsibility is set out in international guidelines from both the UN and the OECD.    

Arisa appeals to companies’ responsibility to respect human rights in various ways. For companies, Arisa is a:  

• Resource for information   

The research of Arisa into supply chains in South Asia gives companies insight into the working conditions in specific supply chains and sectors. It lays bare the severity of any abuses and malpractices and discusses the effectiveness of efforts to counter them. Before publication, Arisa allows companies mentioned in a research report to verify findings and respond (review).    

• Watchdog  

Arisa addresses companies on the abuses and malpractices found. Companies can be cited positively in a report when they address abuses effectively. But when repeated violations have been found and improvement is lacking, Arisa publicises and disseminates the research findings more widely. Sometimes this is done through partnerships and campaigns in which Arisa is involved in.  

• Discussion partner  

Arisa is open to dialogue with companies that seriously want to address (the risks of) abuses and malpractices in their supply chains. A conversation with a company may involve providing feedback or pointing out specific tools. Conversely, Arisa can question a company about its supply chain. However, Arisa is not a business consultant; in many cases, Arisa will refer companies to sector- or multi-stakeholder initiatives.  

• Participant in RBC initiatives  

Arisa, in some cases, cooperates with companies on a long-term basis. This often happens in broader initiatives where trade unions, other civil society organisations, and the government participate alongside companies. For companies, such collaboration can help tackle abuses in their supply chains. Arisa pays attention to the following aspects when deciding to participate in an initiative: the initiative must have concrete objectives, companies must remain ultimately responsible, and they must be willing to make a substantial commitment and be transparent about the supply chain. Government participation in the initiative and a link to government policies can also make a big difference.