The Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CDD), a Mozambican civil society organization, has been elected to the Steering Committee of the Voluntary Principles Initiative (IPV), representing the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) Pillar..

According to a CDD publication, the IPV is a global platform that brings together states, the private sector and civil society organizations, with the aim of promoting the effective implementation of the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPSHR).

"Recognized as the main international standard for companies in the extractive sector, the VPSHR provide guidelines for the identification and management of risks related to security and human rights," reads the note.

In addition, the CDD publication, directed by Professor Adriano Nuvunga, states that "in the Mozambican context, the application of these principles is particularly important given the challenges posed by violent extremism in Cabo Delgado, a province that is home to several extractive industry megaprojects".

CDD's election to the Steering Committee comes at a strategic time, marked by the drafting of the National Action Plan on Business, Security and Human Rights.

The Government of Mozambique is part of the IPV as a member of the Government Pillar, represented by the Ministry of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs and the Ministry of National Defense, with technical support from the CDD and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), based in Switzerland.

The IPV has at least ten member states - Argentina, Australia, Canada, Colombia, Ghana, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States of America - around 35 international companies, more than 15 non-governmental organizations and nine observers, mostly international organizations.

In Mozambique, seven multinational companies have already signed up to the Voluntary Principles: ExxonMobil, Galp, TotalEnergies, Shell, BP, Vale and BHP Billiton.

Italy's Eni is currently in the process of joining as a corporate member, reinforcing the growing importance of the VPSHR in promoting security practices rooted in respect for human rights.

 

(Photo DR)