Why do we need a National Action Plan for Business & Human Rights? - Experiences from Ghana shared with Ethiopian Experts

A dynamic peer exchange between Ghana and Ethiopia recently took place as FES Ethiopia, in collaboration with the Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Unions (CETU), the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), and Ethiopia’s Ministry of Justice, embarked on a mission to learn and share insights on creating a National Action Plan (NAP) on Business & Human Rights (BHR). The delegation's visit to Accra aimed to draw valuable lessons from Ghana’s experiences in developing and planning to implement their soon-to-be-launched NAP. This exchange marks a significant step in fostering South-South cooperation and advancing human rights in economic and labor practices.

During the exchange, the Ethiopian delegation engaged in productive discussions with Ghana’s Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, Ghana’s Ministry of Justice and Attorney General where the emphasis was given on ensuring an inclusive NAP process that involves all relevant stakeholders, aiming for national ownership of the plan. This inclusive approach will help ensure that the action plan is well-rounded, equitable, and representative of the country’s diverse interests and needs.

The delegation also had fruitful meetings with the Ministry of Employment, A Rocha Ghana, the Association of Ghana Industries, and Ghana Trades Union Congress. All parties agreed that effective implementation of the NAP could significantly drive economic growth, enhance productivity, and improve workers' rights. Additionally, they emphasized that such a plan would help reduce worker exploitation, elevate living standards, and bridge the gaps between employers and employees. Incorporating the perspectives of informal workers, fostering social dialogues, and ensuring that CSOs amplify marginalized voices are critical elements for the success of the NAP according to the experts from Ghana. This collaboration between Ghana and Ethiopia sets the stage for a broader dialogue on BHR, creating a path for shared success and progress in both countries and beyond.