National action plans on business and human rights: an analysis of plans from 2013-2018

Since 2011 numerous actors including the UN Human Rights Council, the European Union, the Council of Europe, the Organization of American States, the G7, the G20, national human rights institutions and business associations have encouraged states to develop national action plans on business and human rights (NAPs).

NAPs articulate a state’s priorities and actions to implement the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). Until 2018, 21 states have developed NAPs while 11 more are in the process of developing NAPs. In addition, non-state initiatives are pushing for a NAP in at least 15 countries.

This makes it important to review NAPs and to identify the strengths and weaknesses of current NAPs in implementing the UNGPs and enhancing protections for rights-holders against business-related human rights abuse.