1st Meeting, 11th Session of Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group on Transnational Corporations

Good morning, everybody. We'd like to get started. Please take your seats. So, Excellencies, distinguished representatives, colleagues, and friends, I hereby declare open the 11th session of the Open-Ended Intergovernmental Working Group on Transnational Corporations and Other Business Enterprises with Respect to Human Rights. I'm supposed to start by saying that we're very glad for all of you and to welcome you who have traveled for this important negotiation, noting that it's a long way to come. I'd say that you actually faced 2 additional obstacles with the rain and the long queues because of UNCTAD. So the hard part has been done. You're in the room now, and it's the time for the negotiations to start. So we're very glad to have you here today with us. We have, we've been told that there's a problem with Amazon Web Services for the webcast. It's being sorted out piece by piece. We're hoping that it will work effectively throughout, but they're going to get back to us and let us know if it's functioning the way that we would like. We are now going to proceed with the election for the chairperson rapporteur in accordance with agenda item 2. And the floor is open for nominations for the chairperson rapporteur of the working group. I recognize the permanent representative, the distinguished representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Thank you very much.

Muchas gracias, muy buenos días. La Misión Permanente de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela, en su calidad de coordinación del Grupo Regional para América Latina y el Caribe, GRULAC Derechos Humanos, tiene el honor de presentar la candidatura del Embajador Marcelo Vázquez Bermúdez, representante permanente del Ecuador, ante la Oficina de las Naciones Unidas y otros organismos internacionales con sede en Ginebra, para servir como presidente relator de la undécima sesión del Grupo de Trabajo Intergubernamental de composición abierta establecido por la resolución 26/9 del Consejo de Derechos Humanos, con el mandato de elaborar un instrumento jurídicamente vinculante sobre las empresas transnacionales y otras empresas comerciales con respecto a los derechos humanos. Esta nominación es el resultado de un proceso de consulta dentro de nuestro grupo regional, realizado conforme a los procedimientos y criterios establecidos. Por Por ello, me complace transmitir el deseo del GRULA Derechos Humanos de que la nominación del distinguido representante permanente del Ecuador cuente con el apoyo de todos los Estados miembros. De antemano deseamos el mayor de los éxitos al embajador Vázquez Bermúdez en el ejercicio de sus funciones como presidente relator de este grupo de trabajo y en la continuación de este proceso hacia el pleno cumplimiento de su mandato.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much for that nomination. Are there any other interventions? Seeing none, and there are no more requests on the floor, may I then assume that it is the intention of the working group to elect His Excellency Ambassador Marcelo Vazquez Bermudez as chairperson rapporteur? Assuming so, I see no objections, and it is so decided. I have the honor to declare His Excellency Ambassador Marcelo Vazquez Bermudez, Permanent Representative of Ecuador, has been elected as the chair rapporteur of this 11th session of the Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group on Transnational Corporations and Other Business Enterprises with Respect to Human Rights. I'd like to invite the ambassador to come to the podium and assume the chair.

Good morning. Peggy Hicks. participation, thematic procedures, special rights, and the right to development of the Office of Human Rights for the United Nations. Excellencies, distinguished representatives of states, distinguished representatives of international organizations, organizations of civil society, organizations of workers, indigenous peoples, local communities, private sector, academia, and other relevant actors, as well as National Human Rights Institutions.

Ladies and gentlemen,

I would like to express my appreciation to the countries of the Latin American and Caribbean Group and to all other members and observers of the Human Rights Council for their support and confidence in me as the chair of the working group, at the same time as I assure them of my firm intention to continue presiding the meetings of this working group. in a transparent, respectful, inclusive,

and as efficiently as possible.

Before we make a statement, I would like to invite Ms. Eliza Peixoto, on behalf of the

Office of the High Commissioner

for Human Rights, to make her opening statement.

You have the floor, please, madam.

Chair Rapporteur, thank you very much for giving me the floor. We'd like to thank the chairmanship, in particular Ecuador, for its steadfast leadership and for ensuring that this process continues to be anchored in human rights, including the global standard for addressing business-related human rights impacts, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and key international laws, treaties, and conventions. This working group has always been more than a technical exercise. It is a deeply moral and political undertaking, one that speaks to the very heart of how we govern our global economy, how we protect people and planet, and how we ensure that power, especially corporate power, is regulated and exercised with responsibility, transparency, and accountability. We meet at a time of both challenge and opportunity. We're witnessing troubling signs of regression and hard-won gains are being rolled back in some locations. But at the same time, we see powerful signs of progress, some of which can be credited to this very treaty process. Countries across the globe are advancing national legislation on issues relating to business and human rights, including recent developments in Thailand, the Republic of South Korea, and Colombia. More companies are aligning their operations with international human rights standards. Civil society remains deeply engaged and active, and I see that represented in this room as well. And jurisprudence continues to evolve in ways that underscore both the urgency and legitimacy of our work. Just this past July, the International Court of Justice issued a landmark advisory opinion, affirming that states have a legal obligation to prevent significant harm to the climate system, including through the regulation of corporate actors. Shortly thereafter, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights recognized the right to a stable climate as a standalone human right, calling on states to ensure corporate due diligence and to provide remedies for climate-related harm. These are not isolated developments. They are part of a broader legal shift that is reshaping the contours of corporate accountability. Around the world, courts are increasingly recognizing the role of business in both perpetuating and, at times, preventing human rights harm, and they are acting accordingly. Across the Gulf region, Southeast Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Europe, judicial and nonjudicial bodies are increasingly holding companies accountable for labor rights abuses, including those affecting migrant workers, as well as for land and water pollution, land dispossession, adverse health impacts, lack of consultation, and violations of the rights of communities. These decisions reaffirm the duty of corporations to uphold human rights and conduct due diligence across their global supply chains. Together, these developments signal a clear trend. Courts are broadening the scope of corporate liability for human rights and environmental harm. Mandatory due diligence is gaining traction, even amid political resistance. And victims are increasingly finding new pathways to hold companies accountable, particularly in transnational contexts. These are not abstract developments. They are a clarion call, a recognition by the international community that corporate responsibility is central to protecting human rights and the environment. The stakes could not be higher. In a world marked by deepening inequality, environmental collapse, proliferation of armed conflict, and rising authoritarianism, we must ensure that human rights are not sidelined in the name of maximizing profits or ensuring competitiveness. We must reaffirm that human rights are not optional. They are not a matter of corporate discretion. They are binding obligations on states and increasingly on business actors as well. This is why the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights remains fully committed to supporting this process. Such an instrument would ensure businesses are held to clear, enforceable human rights obligations. It would provide certainty to markets and incentivize healthy competition by leveling the playing field among corporate actors, which strengthen access to justice for victims And it would send a powerful message that human rights are at the core of economic governance. Let us seize this moment. Let us build on the momentum of recent legal developments. Let us honor the courage of those who have fought and continue to fight for justice in the face of corporate abuse. I wish you all a constructive session over the next few days. Thank you.

Doy las gracias a la señora Hicks por su presencia y sus palabras de aliento a la labor de este grupo de trabajo y por el apoyo permanente de la Oficina del Alto Comisionado a la Presidencia. Me gustaría invitar ahora a la señora Michamón y O'Fulton, presidenta del Grupo de Trabajo sobre Empresas y Derechos Humanos, a hacer una declaración en nombre del mencionado grupo

de trabajo.

Distinguished Chairperson, Excellencies, representatives of governments, civil society, the business community and all esteemed colleagues, it is an honor to deliver these remarks on behalf of the Working Group on Business and Human Rights at this session of the Open-Ended Intergovernmental Working Group. Allow me first to express sincere appreciation to the permanent mission of Ecuador and for all member states, organizations, and individuals that have dedicated time, energy, and conviction to this process. Your contributions have helped move us closer to a world where respect for human rights is embedded firmly in business conduct. Since the unanimous endorsement of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights in 2011, the global landscape has changed profoundly. This authoritative global framework has since informed laws, policies, and business practices in various parts of the world. In addition to national action plans on business and human rights, we have witnessed continued momentum from Europe through to Asia towards mandatory human rights due diligence that reinforces the smart mix of measures, both voluntary and mandatory at the national and international levels, as envisioned by the guiding principles. Still, we must confront the troubling reality that progress in relation to the business and human rights agenda remains uneven across different regions. Even more alarming is the backsliding already underway in certain jurisdictions where human rights commitments are being weakened or deprioritized. When human rights protections are eroded and states retreat from transparency and accountability, This sends the wrong message to business and risks reversing the hard-won progress we have achieved to move from corporate impunity to accountability. This is precisely why the ongoing process towards a legally binding instrument remains so vital. Businesses today exercise considerable reach and immense influence, both within and across borders. Complementing voluntary measures, then, a coherent and aligned legally binding instrument can help level the playing field, ensuring that responsible businesses are not undercut by those seeking to exploit gaps in governance. It can also protect rights holders, guarantee access to effective remedies for victims, and reaffirm how profit without principle is progress without purpose. It is nevertheless important to ensure that this legally binding instrument aligns with and builds upon the UN guiding principles. Complementarity must define the approach taken. The instrument should reinforce the expectations for states and businesses to protect, respect and fulfill human rights, reinforcing the smart mix of measures and integrating itself into the broader system of human rights to ensure coherence, consistency and credibility. In this regard, the working group deeply values our long-standing cooperation and collaboration with the Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group. Our two mandates are united by the overarching objective of advancing corporate respect for human rights and ensuring effective remedies for rights holders adversely impacted by business activities. Through joint initiatives such as our co-organized sessions and side events with the chair rapporteur of this group at the annual forum on business and human rights, we have demonstrated how constructive dialogue and engagement moves us forward. The spirit of partnership must continue to guide us. The working group stands ready to collaborate even more closely with the open-ended intergovernmental working group to ensure that the legally binding instrument process works in concert with ongoing efforts to disseminate and implement the guiding principles, whether it be through capacity building, multi-stakeholder initiatives, or some other measure. Excellencies and esteemed delegates, as we gather today, we are doing so at a time of intersecting crises sparked by violent conflicts and mass displacement, by climate change, by worsening inequality, and by shrinking civic space. In this context, we must forge stronger partnerships predicated on a shared purpose to protect all rights holders everywhere, while scaling up the human rights commitments of states and businesses alike. Cooperation grounded in solidarity is the only way to anchor progress and weather the geopolitical storms of our time. Distinguished chairperson, looking ahead, this session not only offers us another critical step in the process, but a moment to renew our common goal to transform principles into practice and commitments into concrete change. Once again, the working group stands ready to continue supporting this effort so that the journey we began with the guiding principles culminates in a fairer, more just and more rights respecting global economy. Thank you all for your attention. May this session inspire more cooperation, not less, more dialogue, not division, and renewed courage to act together now when unity matters most in order to advance human dignity and justice for all.

Quiero dar las gracias a la señora Diouf-Mantong por su declaración y, sobre todo, por el apoyo permanente del Grupo de Trabajo de la ONU sobre Empresas y Derechos Humanos al fortalecimiento de la complementariedad entre ambos procesos. Y con esto concluye el punto 2 del orden del día. Distinguished representatives and delegates, a continuation is grato poner a consideración del grupo de trabajo la adopción del programa provisional o agenda in English. Agenda contained in the document A/HR/C/WG.16/11/1 and its corrigendum. Dicho programa o agenda is the same as every year and consists of the opening of the session and the election of the chair, which has already happened. Continuing the current item 3 on the approval of the provisional agenda, the agenda of work and the methodology of the session. Seguida del tema 4, debates plenarios, en conformidad con el programa de trabajo. Para finalizar con el tema 5, aprobación del informe del período de sesiones. Simultáneamente, me es grato poner a consideración la versión revisada del programa de trabajo que fue circulado y publicado por primera vez el 26 de agosto de 2025, como base para una consulta llevada a cabo el de septiembre, seguido de la versión revisada, circulada y publicada el pasado 15 de septiembre, recogiendo los comentarios y sugerencias recibidas en dicha consulta. Al respecto, me permito aclarar que la metodología presentada simultáneamente al programa de trabajo es una respuesta a lo solicitado en el párrafo 29 e) de las recomendaciones contenidas in the report of the working group and adopted by consensus

at the end of that session.

Nonetheless, it is a separate document which,

above all, is an additional

demonstration of the will and commitment of the Chair to the continued strengthening

of the efficiency, transparency, inclusiveness and predictability of this process.

Por ello, antes de resaltar algunos detalles operativos sobre el desarrollo de esta sesión, contenidos de dicha metodología, deseo poner a consideración del Grupo de Trabajo la adopción del programa provisional, del programa de trabajo y de la metodología para la presente sesión. Si no veo objeción, puedo considerar que los referidos programa provisional, programa de trabajo y metodología de esta sesión se consideran adoptados. Así queda decidido.

Muchas gracias.

Volviendo a la metodología presentada para esta sesión, me permito resaltar que en este documento guía se recuerda con precisión los límites de tiempo para las intervenciones de Estados y otros actores no estatales en el segmento de intervenciones generales y en la continuación de las negociaciones lideradas por los Estados, de conformidad con la práctica de este grupo de trabajo y del Consejo. Esta información también ha sido publicada previamente por la Secretaría en el portal electrónico de la décima primera sesión del Grupo de Trabajo, bajo la pestaña Participación. Del mismo modo, en el documento de metodología se informa que dichas negociaciones continuarán con la lectura del documento.

59/59, addendum one.

This started in the ninth session of the working group, continued at the 10th, 12 to article 12, to article 24, 12 to article 24, 12 to article 24. Article 24 being the last. 12 speakers that are proposed. 14 and 15.

16, 24 taken together.

Delegates will therefore be invited to present amendments to these proposals. which are being considered, which are being considered on the screen and reflected in the updated version of the document, and an addendum to the.

Report of the 11th.

Sin perjuicio de lo anterior, la versión con control de cambios del documento borrador actualizado de instrumento jurídicamente vinculante estará también disponible para ser consultada como documento de referencia, de la misma manera como se realizó.

Durante la novena y la décima sesiones.

Una vez que concluyan las negociaciones dirigidas por los Estados, Sobre los artículos 12 a 24, pasaremos al segmento titulado Presentación del resumen de las consultas temáticas entre períodos de sesiones sobre los artículos 4 a 11 y de las propuestas del Presidente resultante de.

Ellas, seguida de un debate interactivo.

En dicho segmento, presentaré oralmente algunas reflexiones de carácter general sobre las tres consultas temáticas entre períodos de sesiones realizadas entre abril y junio, y el informe resumido sobre estas consultas. Este informe resumido se distribuyó y publicó el 25 de septiembre, se preparó de conformidad con la decisión 56/116.

Decision and the roadmap for 2025.

I will make some observations on the annex to the summary note, which contains my proposal for reformulation of the redaction of 13 selected provisions within the section of articles 4 to 11 of the draft instrument.

Of the draft of the binding instrument.

These proposals have no legal nature, the only aim being to highlight possible areas of convergence, solutions and present options for the consideration of this group. A continuacion, se abrirá el uso de la palabra para que los Estados y luego las partes interesadas no estatales formulen algunas observaciones generales sobre las consultas temáticas. El informe resumido y las reformulaciones sugeridas por el Presidente Relator de las 13 disposiciones seleccionadas del Grupo de Artículos 4 al 11 From articles 47 and 48, for this segment, will not have a formal speakers list. Instead, we ask that delegations participate in an open, constructive and informal debate in a formal manner, fixed on.

The elements of the text that have been.

Suggested for consideration based on the discussions that have taken place. And please, Mr. Chairman, instead of.

Going back to reviewing previously.

Suggested proposals, I will propose or make a motion that the text be adopted.

And states and non-state stakeholders will then be.

Able to give their thoughts on the latest sessions and also in light of requests that are made.

In those sense and non-state states.

During this session, the documents that are made in those sense and non-state states and non-state states during this session will be published working groups at the end by the end of January next year at the 18th. At the end, by the end of January next year at the 18th. We will be webcasting this session by the UN. In English, the languages, the recording will be available after the end of each session. Also in the six languages. So the session will be open to all of those who, for various.

Reasons, have been unable to come to Geneva.

It is open to all. So the 10th session in December, both during the reading and negotiation of articles 12 to 24, in particular, during the segment of presentation of the summary of the thematic consultations between periods of sessions, on articles 4 to 11, and of the proposals of the President resulting from them, Any delegation or even I myself will have the opportunity to take advantage of the process and to ask specific questions, taking into consideration that it is precisely the continuation of the reading of the articles 12 to 24, as well as the comments and proposals of the States and other non-State actors the main framework for the resolution 56/116. Esta posible asesoría in situ está sustentada además en el párrafo operativo 6 de la resolución 2690, donde el Consejo afirmó, cito, la importancia de proporcionar a este grupo de trabajo un asesoramiento independiente y especializado para que pueda cumplir su mandato.

Fin de la cita. efficiently carry out that work.

It is up to you, as in the 10th session, to do the same.

And it is up to you, as in the.

10th session, and you will have to make decisions. Questions will have to be channelled through the chair of the rapporteur, and I will ensure that we do this in a way that is respectful of the nature of the intergovernmental process of negotiation. Under international negotiation procedures, one segment of continuation of the informal and interactive debate on the thematic consultations and the proposals suggested by the President of the Council for the reformulation of some provisions, on 23 October in the afternoon, a consultation will be held on the for the 2026 proposal for the 2026 proposal for the 2026 HRC 2016. including the thematic inter-session consultations.

Which were distributed on the 15th of September 2025.

After the introduction of that roadmap, there will be space for both the States and the non-state parties to express their comments, to express their comments, to express their comments, to express their comments, and to express their comments, and to express their comments, and to express to attend, depending on the confirmation of the status of the Office of the High Commissioner and the.

UN Office here in Geneva.

De acuerdo con la práctica de este grupo de trabajo. El día viernes 24 de octubre por la mañana tendrá lugar una reunión cerrada entre delegaciones de Estados para las consultas sobre las recomendaciones del Presidente Relator y las conclusiones del grupo de trabajo, con miras a su adopción en una última sesión plenaria el mismo viernes 24 de octubre por la tarde.

Same day.

In any case, remember that this methodology is a living document, and it only seeks to.

Strengthen transparency over the development of the session, but whose implementation, effective or?

Even improvement, for this or future sessions, will always depend.

On each and every one of the participants in this working group.

English.

Item four, plenary negotiations in accordance.

With the program of work. Before that, I would.

Like to take advantage of this opportunity to give the floor to the secretariat for some announcements. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair, rapporteur, and a warm welcome to everybody. The Secretary would like to make a few announcements in relation to the updated draft legally binding instrument, which will be edited in real time later today under agenda item 4, continuation of the state-led negotiation, article 4 to 24. sorry, Article 12 to 24, the Secretariat will share later today with all the participants duly accredited through Indico, the web link to the version of the updated draft legally binding instrument, which will be edited in real time. For those who have not registered via Indico, the link will be also posted under the document section on the 11 session web page. As indicated earlier by the chair reporter, the session is being live streamed on webcast, albeit we were informed earlier this morning that there is a service outage, which seems to mean that currently the webcast is functioning, but only in English. We hope that the matter will be solved later. And we will be able as well, participants, to listen to the live audio stream. Turning now to the modalities of the session, we would like to kindly invite you to consult the participation page on the 11th session webpage, and in particular, the document titled Participation Note. which provides detailed information on how to sign up for the list of speakers, how to make intervention and the length of this intervention, and how to share statement with the secretariat for the different segments. Regarding the list of speakers, when it comes to the segment general statement, the list of speakers is now closed, and all requests to be placed on the list of speakers for item 4, continuation of the state-led negotiation, article 12 to 24, must be sent by e-mail through the generic inbox address, oachr-igwg-intervention@un.org. We are as well fortunate this year to have with us two colleagues who will be sitting or are actually sitting at the back of the room on the right, and they should have a nameplate list of speakers, and you can feel free to approach them for any issues linked to list of speakers. So for that item, the state-led negotiation on Article 12 to 24, states do not need to sign up for the list of speakers, and for non-state stakeholders, the list of speakers for each article is now open. And to facilitate the preparation of the list of speakers, non-state stakeholders are kindly requested to send a separate request for each article, as well as a separate statement as well. There will be an individual list of speakers for articles 12, 13, 14, and 15, and then there will be a joint list of speakers covering articles 16 to 24. The list of speakers for a specific article or cluster of articles will close once states complete their discussion of that article. As always, it would be much appreciated if you could send a copy of your oral statement in advance of your intervention, not only to aid the interpreters, but also to facilitate the real-time capturing on screen of textual suggestion made. Unless requested otherwise, oral statement received will also be posted online on the 11th session webpage of the session. For the segment presentation of the summary of the intersessional thematic consultation on Article 4 to 20, to 11, and the chair proposal followed by interactive discussion, scheduled to start on Wednesday afternoon until Thursday afternoon, and for the discussion thereafter on Thursday afternoon later in the day on the 20th. 26 roadmap, there won't be any list of speakers, including for non-state stakeholders. And the colleagues I've mentioned earlier from the secretariat team will circulate in the room and help convey to the chair the request for the floor. In relation to side events, they will take place in room 7 And I'll invite you to consult the table of side events on the 11 session web page, which include the details of each of the side events, location and time, and as well concept note when these were shared with the secretariat. And I would like to acknowledge as well the excellent coordination among civil society actors In the light of the scarcity of the room, so we were very glad to be able to accommodate the four session proposal received. I thank you for your attention.

Thank you very much, the Secretary General. Starting with the general statement from the chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, in first place I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all delegations, States and other relevant actors for their presence at this 11th session of the working group established in 2014 by resolution 26/9 of the Human Rights Council, with the mandate to develop un instrumento internacional jurídicamente vinculante sobre las empresas transnacionales y otras empresas.

Con respecto a los derechos humanos.

Agradezco igualmente el apoyo recibido desde la Oficina del Alto Comisionado de las Naciones Unidas para los Derechos Humanos, acting as secretary, especially in a context of geopolitical uncertainties and serious budgetary constraints, where her continued support to this process, including the preparation of this new session and the organization of the respective consultations and activities inter-sessional since the previous session, is.

Becoming increasingly necessary.

Desde el inicio de este proceso, los Estados y demás participantes han coincidido en reconocer la existencia de un vacío normativo en el derecho internacional de los derechos humanos respecto a la regulación de las actividades empresariales, especialmente aquellas de carácter transnacional. Llenar este vacío resulta esencial para garantizar the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights has access to justice for victims of violations or human rights abuses

arising from these activities.

The mandate conferred by Resolution 26/9 is supported by a long history of multilateral efforts that constitute

important pillars of the current

regulatory framework, including non-binding measures by the OECD and the

UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

La experiencia acumulada demuestra la necesidad de avanzar hacia un instrumento internacional jurídicamente vinculante que precise las obligaciones de los Estados y las responsabilidades de las empresas en materia de prevención, respeto, protección y reparación.

protection and reparation.

A treaty in this sphere would strengthen access to justice, it would promote greater certainty of state businesses and victims, it would harmonize labor human rights standards, labor standards and environmental standards, and competency based on the responsibility, the competency based on in line with a recognition to adopt a raft of

necessary measures within the human rights sphere.

In this sense, I would like to remind you that the High

Commissioner for Human Rights of the United Nations, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, for Turkey,

States adopting a legally binding instrument on human rights might make significant contributions to establishing a global standard of conduct, ensuring that no State or business is disadvantaged for doing so,

and guaranteeing better access to justice for victims.

We also acknowledge the progress made on national and regional legal frameworks and public policies in drafting legally binding standards, in addition to strengthening the capacities

On top of strengthening institutional

capacity, it is also reflected

a growing commitment to prevention and reparation of abuses.

These experiences constitute a key value for countries for

building an international framework that is coherent, realistic, and effective.

In the same vein, we can say that

a growing number of businesses

recognize that protecting human rights makes a down

contribution to the sustainability of their work, providing them long-term economic stability within their respective value chains.

This announcement reflects the reduction in legal and reputational risks, diminishing uncertainty, formalizing their social responsibility, and enhancing their respect for human rights. and there is a potential for sanctions or conflicts

deriving from human rights abuses.

Similarly, companies can identify in this matter a competitive advantage and better access to international markets, by showing firm commitment to human rights, by maintaining comprehensive and and the strengthening of the

trust of consumers and investors.

In this context, I would once again like to highlight the fact that the Human Rights Council, by consensus, in July 2024, adopted Decision 56/116 of the Council on Human Rights, entitled de la capacidad de apoyo del grupo de trabajo intergubernamental de composición abierta sobre las empresas transnacionales y otras empresas comerciales en la esfera de los derechos humanos, establecido en virtud de la resolución 26/9 del Consejo de Derechos Humanos. The adoption of this decision has been widely recognized as

a milestone for the working

group, not only because it was adopted by consensus, but also because of the broad co-sponsorship by states and observers of the Council. Also, because of the more based case, both across regions, which showed the commitment of the international community, continued

and completed the work started. Under HRC resolution 26/9,

the Chair, by consensus, in its conclusions and recommendations adopted by consensus at the end of the 10th session,

adopted rather at the

end of the 10th session, in December 2024, acogió con beneplácito la adopción por el Consejo de la referida decisión 56/116. In a positive sense, during the 10th session, this group of experts achieved progress in the negotiations on direct intergovernmental cooperation on articles 4 to 11 of the updated version of the draft of the future instrument, an international legally binding instrument. We had the participation of more than 80 states and a significant number of other participants. The participation was mainly technical and constructive, and comments were made for improvement focused on the various articles

of the draft binding instrument.

Esto es de particular relevancia en relación con la naturaleza y alcance sustantivo de los artículos 4 al 11 del proyecto de instrumento, pues precisamente incluyen temas de especial complejidad e importancia para el instrumento, tales como los artículos sobre los derechos y la protección de las víctimas, la prevención del involucramiento de las empresas en este tipo de abusos de derechos humanos, and access to appropriate,

timely, and effective reparation.

Other key provisions are particularly legally complex, such as the determination of the different

types of legal responsibility,

jurisdiction, applicable law, and prescription. And the participation of the experts, whose contributions and responses to the questions of the States, channeled through the President, allow us to deepen the understanding and analysis of

complex topics and questions raised by delegations.

Las conclusiones y recomendaciones adoptadas por consenso en la décima sesión del Grupo de Trabajo reflejaron de manera inequívoca la voluntad de continuar avanzando en la negociación del proyecto revisado del instrumento vinculante, incluyendo sobre la base de las propuestas de texto concretas presentadas durante la novena y décima sesiones. entre otras recomendaciones y conclusiones, cabe destacar especialmente la de presentar una hoja de ruta confirmada de 2025 para la aplicación de la decisión 56/116, que incluya la celebración de consultas temáticas inter-sesionales con el fin de examinar grupos de artículos del proyecto de instrumento

jurídicamente vinculante.

En cumplimiento de esas recomendaciones y conclusiones, y únicamente tras obtener claridad de la Secretaría respecto de la disponibilidad efectiva de los recursos financieros aprobados por la Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas, en febrero pasado presenté una actualización de dicha hoja de ruta, cuyo eje central fue la celebración de tres consultas temáticas presenciales en Ginebra

open to both States and relevant stakeholders.

These consultations took place between April and June 2020 and addressed articles 4 to 11 of the draft instrument. At least one week before each of these consultations, non-paper documents were circulated elaborados por la Presidencia y Relatoría, con el apoyo de los expertos jurídicos, para facilitar el análisis de las propuestas presentadas en la décima sesión y sus consecuencias jurídicas, proporcionando distintas fuentes para dicho análisis, así como elementos de respuesta sobre su posible incorporación o no for example, this include elements or

not, and also identifying

areas of convergence during the intercessions. We see some areas, some evidence on some aspects of the project, particularly related to

prevent and due diligence measures.

comprender con más claridad aquellas áreas donde todavía existen divergencias, incluyendo, por ejemplo, en cuestiones sobre la posible responsabilidad extraterritorial, la naturaleza y alcance de los mecanismos de reparación, entre otras cuestiones. En este sentido, deseo subrayar

In this respect, I'd like to underscore

that one of the documents produced in these sessions is the conference statement

of these sessions, which

is an extremely important tool in moving forwards with the progress that we have been seeing on this process. These sessions nos permiten ir más allá de la mera presentación de posiciones nacionales, profundizando en la comprensión de las implicaciones de cada enfoque y tendiendo puentes hacia la consolidación de una convergencia fundamentada, realista y pragmática que permita garantizar la operatividad efectiva del futuro. Conforme a lo anunciado al final de la tercera consulta, What was announced in the 2025 roadmap? In the 2025 roadmap, in the 2025 roadmap, the 15th of September, 2025, se circuló una versión actualizada del programa de trabajo para esta 11th session, seguida el 26th of September, 2025, del informe resumido de las consultas intercesionales. Asimismo, como anexo de dicho informe resumido, se distribuyó posteriormente un documento que tiene una selección de varias disposiciones del proyecto de instrumento vinculante, con la finalidad de proponer 13 sugerencias de reformulación de lenguaje, derivadas precisamente de las propuestas presentadas en la décima sesión, así como de las discusiones sobre los artículos 4 a 11 en el período intercesional. Dichas propuestas recogen posibles áreas de convergencia, opciones de redacción y opciones o sugerencias de reformulación para orientar el trabajo de la segunda parte de esta semana. Por ello, como ya señalé al momento de la aprobación del programa de trabajo para esta decimoprimer sesión, luego de las negociaciones intergubernamentales directas en relación con los artículos 12 al 24 del proyecto de instrumento actualizado, Procederé a presentar formalmente el informe resumido de las consultas temáticas intercesionales, así como las propuestas de 13 nuevas formulaciones de lenguaje que propongo en relación con los resultados de dichas consultas. Seguida de un diálogo interactivo entre los Estados y demás actores interesados sobre las posibles áreas de convergencia sobre los nuevos 13 nuevos textos sugeridos. El objetivo principal de este segundo segmento es profundizar de manera interactiva el intercambio sustantivo. have a binding change in terms of the change on very substantial parts of the draft binding instruments, using the foundations of the structures

that came out of the consultations.

de la formulación del lenguaje no tienen ningún estatus jurídico, no reemplazan al texto actualizado del borrador de instrumento jurídicamente vinculante, por lo cual espero que todos los Estados y otros actores relevantes se involucren y participen de manera constructiva en un diálogo interactivo sobre estas propuestas del Presidente, analizándolas y comentándolas, no desde sus respectivas posiciones maximalistas, sino On the other hand, encouraging them to do so under the lens of how much they reflect or not the possible convergence or solutions to the different proposals presented in the 10th session or in the intercessional period.

and on the solutions proposed.

I would like you to take advantage of the possible assistance of the experts, to comment and, hopefully, identify possible adjustments specific necessary, avoiding going back to proposals earlier, that probably did not necessarily enjoy

the support of other stakeholders. Previously made some proposals that did not necessarily enjoy

the support of the Council, and I'm sure that you will take it as part of the support of these proposals as a as one component in the steps that we're taking under resolution 156 and a resolution 156, and I'm sure that you will take it as one more sign of my personal commitment. Transparency, inclusiveness, transparency, inclusiveness, inclusiveness with a balanced approach, taking into account the various realities, the various legal complexities, and the sensitivities that characterize this process, in particular those of the victims of abuse and violations of human rights arising from

transnational business operations.

And certainly, we are at a point where it's different. It's A decisive moment in the situation. cada vez más amplia de Estados, la riqueza de las propuestas sustantivas acumuladas a lo largo de los años, la experiencia adquirida en la aplicación de marcos no vinculantes, la creciente documentación de casos y, de manera especial, la adopción por consenso de la decisión 56/116 del Consejo de Derechos Humanos, configuran una verdadera ventana de oportunidad histórica que debemos aprovechar

Un determinación y sentido de propósito.

La correcta y plena implementación de dicha decisión puede marcar un punto de inflexión en la historia de este proceso, permitirnos avanzar hacia la culminación de la labor del grupo de trabajo en estricto cumplimiento del mandato otorgado por la resolución 26/19 en un plazo adecuado y razonable, evitando en todo caso que las negociaciones se extiendan indefinidamente. Después de más de una década de esfuerzos sostenidos y a pesar de la compleja y disruptiva coyuntura geopolítica actual, Considero que la progresiva evolución del proceso y el contexto actual de nuestras negociaciones incluye una valoración más informada. in more mature and more mature, and more mature, and more mature, and more mature, and more, and more, and more,

and more, and more,

and, and, and, and,

and, and, and, and,

Las sesiones y consultas que tenemos por delante representan, en consecuencia, una oportunidad excepcional para consolidar avances concretos en el fortalecimiento del derecho internacional en esta materia, al tiempo que contribuyan a asegurar la prevención y el acceso a la justicia y reparación de las víctimas, al tiempo que refuerzan la seguridad jurídica de todos los actores, incluyendo las empresas Promoviendo una competencia de calidad sustentada en la observancia de estándares internacionales en materia de derechos humanos, laborales y ambientales. En este contexto, deseo también recordar que las labores de esta presidencia de relatoría. Se ejercen únicamente en representación del Consejo de Derechos Humanos y con el mandato de facilitar y orientar los trabajos del Grupo de la manera más técnica.

Imparcial y transparente posible?

Asegurando que este proceso avance con rigor, coherencia y espíritu constructivo hacia la culminación del mandato histórico otorgado por el Consejo mediante su resolución 26/9. Estoy convencido de que este grupo de trabajo dispone hoy de instrumentos sólidos y consensuados que pueden y deben ser utilizados de forma pragmática, equilibrada y colaborativa para acelerar.

El proceso de negociación.

Por mi parte, reitero mi firme determinación de acompañar y orientar este esfuerzo colectivo con responsabilidad y apertura, consciente de que será, en última instancia, the active participation of States and other relevant actors, which will allow us to conclude in a reasonable additional time, the mandate that the.

Human Rights Council has conferred on us of 10 years. Thank you very much.

Permítanme ahora dar la palabra a las delegaciones de Estados para sus declaraciones de carácter general, comenzando por las declaraciones que pudieran haber de parte de grupos regionales o políticos. En primer lugar, la distinguida representante de la Unión Europea tiene usted la palabra.

Thank you, Mr. Chair Rapporteur. The EU and its member states thank you and the Secretariat of the High Commissioner's Office for organizing this session. The EU remains committed to ensuring that businesses uphold their responsibilities to respect human rights and the environment. The EU has taken several steps to promote the global implementation of the UN Guiding Principles consistent with a smart mix approach. As we had the opportunity to share in previous sessions, several pieces of legislation relevant for the advancement of the business and human rights agenda have entered into force in recent years. These include human rights and environmental due diligence legislation, transparency legislation, a regulation banning products made with forced labor from the European market, legislation on eco-design for sustainable products, conflict minerals, batteries, and deforestation, critical raw materials legislation and rules, and protecting human rights in the digital sphere. Some of these pieces of legislation are currently undergoing revision as part of simplification efforts under the so-called sustainability omnibus. With the proposed amendments, the EU aims to find the right balance between maintaining strong sustainability goals, including the protection of human rights, while ensuring that regulatory burdens are proportionate. It is now for the EU co-legislators to adopt the substantive amendments. As part of this smart mix, the majority of EU member states have adopted national action plans on business and human rights. The EU has also worked on incentive-based measures, such as initiatives to promote impact investments and to strengthen the uptake of sustainability criteria in public procurement. We have also continued to engage with partner countries and regions to promote the global implementation of the UN Guiding Principles and responsible business conduct standards, and to support stakeholders and partner countries for the adaptation to the new requirements under EU legislation. The EU underlines the need for clear, proportionate, and workable obligations that provide legal certainty and preserve competitiveness, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. Mr. Chair-Rapporteur, we would like to express our appreciation for your efforts to organize intersessional consultations in April and June, which provided a valuable platform for gaining deeper insights on the LBI. We commend the Chair's efforts to develop and present compromise proposals based on those consultations. We also appreciate the proposed roadmap for 2026. which foresees additional intersessional consultations on clusters of thematic issues and articles of the draft LBI. We support that these consultations encompass all articles and aspects of the text, including on those aspects where positions diverge. We favor the emergence of an international legal framework promoting respect for human rights by business enterprises. Such framework should build upon the UN guiding principles, including on the issue of personal scope. It should be crafted in an inclusive manner, enhance the protection of victims, and be balanced and proportional in its obligations while avoiding unnecessary burdens on companies, notably on small and medium-sized companies. Such an approach would help secure broad cross-regional support for the LBI and foster a global level playing field for companies worldwide. In light of the recent advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice in July 2025, we call again for an LBI that pursues an integrated approach to respecting human rights and combating environmental degradation and climate change. While the European Union does not have yet a formal negotiation mandate, we remain committed to contributing constructively to this week's discussions. The EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive provides an important basis for the EU's engagement on business and human rights and on other pieces of the EU legislation, and the Sustainability Omnibus will continue to guide us in this regard. The EU reiterates its readiness to work with you, Mr. Chair-Rapporteur, as well as other partners, to build the necessary consensus towards a legally sound and practically implementable instrument that can lead to effective standards at the international level. I thank you, Mr. Chair-Rapporteur.

Muchas gracias. Thank you. Thank you. To the Gulf Cooperation Council.

But the total is a scut, the only common to was in, we are called for the car, my soul, I'm going to do, we're so, I can't, I'm going to do, and the new, I have a miss, I, it's up, and you can, my scut.

My, I, the, I, the, I, the, I, the, I.

As it is. and be guided by the international treaties that allow countries to express reservations on provisions that do not align.

With their own legal systems or national considerations. Thank you very much, Chair.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much.

Ofrezco la palabra a continuación al distinguido representante del Reino Unido.

To the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Chair. We would like to thank OHCHR for organizing this session, and we extend our appreciation to Ecuador for their leadership. The United Kingdom remains committed to implementing the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. These principles underpin our broader efforts to promote responsible business conduct, and ensure that human rights are respected across global supply chains. Earlier this year, the UK's Department for Business and Trade launched a review of our approach to responsible business conduct. This review will consider the effectiveness of the UK's current RBC measures and alternative policy options to support responsible business practices, including mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence, import controls, amongst others. It will be an objective and evidence-based process aimed at enhancing the UK's framework for responsible business conduct. In parallel, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is conducting a national baseline assessment of the implementation of the UN Guiding Principles. These will contribute to the evidence base that informs the UK's approach to tackling business-related human rights abuses. We expect both the RBC review and the national baseline assessment to conclude early next year. Their findings will inform the UK's position on this draft treaty. These initiatives reflect our commitment to ensuring that businesses respect human rights, support sustainable development, and contribute to resilient and inclusive economies. We would also like to share with this working group a set of principles on supply chains developed through a UK-hosted dialogue earlier this year at Wilton Park. These offer a framework for addressing human rights abuses in global supply chains while promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development. The principles emphasize collaboration, transparency, and the importance of centering affected workers and communities at the center of discussions and actions. As we consider the development of this treaty, We hope that these insights will inform our approach to ensuring that any future instrument is inclusive, effective, and grounded in real-world experience. We're also commissioning new research to assess the potential economic impact of this draft treaty. This work reflects our commitment to an evidence-informed approach. We hope to be able to share insights from this research in due course. The UK acknowledges the potential merits of an instrument that further elaborates the responsibilities of businesses with regards to human rights. We appreciate the intersessional dialogues, non-working papers and expert legal advice that have supported progress. However, we feel further work is needed to address outstanding challenges in the text. We note with appreciation the Chair's textual suggestions circulated ahead of this session. Given the short timeframe in which these were received, further time will be necessary to consider the proposals in greater depth, and therefore our interactions during this session may be limited in some areas. Any future instrument must deliver meaningful outcomes for all stakeholders while being workable for businesses and governments. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. China has the floor.

Mr. President, we congratulate you on your election as the new Chairperson. Under your leadership, we will... 主 including global human rights governance, provided China's wisdom and program to strengthen and promote global HR governance. Today, the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China will be held in Beijing. The meeting will consider the 15th Five-Year Plan. We will consider the high-quality development, promote the high-quality development, and promote the high-quality development. Sustaining the guarantee of the guarantee of the guarantee of the guarantee of the guarantee of the guarantee will promote the business. And the guarantee of the business will promote the business. And the guarantee of the business will promote the guarantee of the business. And the guarantee of the business will promote the guarantee of China's government of a enterprise has successfully issued normative documents, the enterprise and the investment, and the investment. I require the UN to bring about a change in the laws of those countries. We also some guidance on how to guide the development of the industrial sector and the industrial sector and the industrial sector and the industrial sector and the industrial To In terms of the right to life, the right to work, the right to education, the right to health, the right to food, the right to housing, the right to freedom of movement, the right to freedom of thought, the right to freedom of expression, the right to freedom of movement, the right to freedom of thought, You thank the government for the rights of workers, arbitration and the filing rules, and the ability to improve the connection, the connection mechanism between the issue and social assistance, so that people can feel the effect of the government's specific preparation. As the largest developing country, China has always prioritized human rights and development as the primary basic human rights. China welcomes transnational companies to play a positive role in promoting the reduction of poverty, the development of the economy, the improvement of livelihoods, and the acceleration of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, while also noting some transnational And I'd like to say that we also noted the negative impact of the U.S. presence in the country. China is willing to support negotiations on UN flag-folding and coordination of countries. China is willing to work with all parties. We believe that negotiation of legal instruments, adhere to the principles of the UN, take into account the rights of victims and other human rights, and actively participate in the development of international law instruments. We should also fully respect the rules of international law and domestic law, which are internationally recognized, the legal principles of adaptability of instruments with international law and the domestic legal system. and provide a stable and predictable business environment. The working group will always adhere to the principle of state-led and consensus, fully respect, and consensus in all countries. Let me make some sense and ensure that the future legal instruments can be widely supported and respected with to the core issue that to the quality such as the scope of the application. The mandate of HRC Resolution 26.9 should be strictly observed. We look forward to working with all parties to promote the positive progress of this meeting. Thank you.

Thank you.

Switzerland has the floor.

Avant tout, vous féliciter pour votre élection et pour la conduite constructive et inclusive des consultations thématiques pendant la période intercessionnelle. Nous saluons les efforts entrepris pour favoriser un dialogue transparent, équilibré, entre les États, la société civile, les entreprises et les autres parties prenantes, afin d'avancer vers des solutions communes pour la protection des droits de l'homme dans le contexte des activités économiques. La Suisse, bien qu'elle ne dispose pas de mandat de négociation à cette session, continuera à suivre activement les discussions en qualité d'observatrice. Depuis la dernière session, la Suisse a poursuivi la mise en oeuvre de son plan d'action national 2024-2027 sur les entreprises et les droits de l'homme, en partenariat étroit avec le milieu économique, les organisations non gouvernementales, les partenaires sociaux et les milieux académiques. Ce plan vise à renforcer la mise en oeuvre des principes directeurs des Nations unies et à soutenir les entreprises dans l'amélioration de leurs procédures de diligence Le 3 septembre 2025, le Conseil fédéral a décidé d'opposer un contre-projet indirect à l'initiative populaire pour de grandes entreprises raisonnables pour la protection de l'être humain et l'environnement. Par cette décision, la Suisse réaffirme son engagement à faire en sorte que les entreprises suisses respectent les droits de l'homme en protégeant l'environnement dans le cadre des activités. the fundamental rights.

I give the floor to.

France.

Monsieur le Président rapporteur, la France vous adresse toutes ses félicitations pour le travail ambitieux.

Que vous menez depuis l'année dernière et votre élection à la tête du groupe. La France se souscrit à la déclaration de l'Union européenne et vous remercie, ainsi que le secrétariat du Haut-Commissariat aux droits de l'homme pour l'organisation de cette 11e session. Comme vous le savez, la France est très attachée à ce que les entreprises s'efforcent d'identifier les risques, de prévenir et de remédier aux violations des droits de l'homme et aux atteintes aux libertés fondamentales, à la santé et à la sécurité des personnes, ainsi qu'à l'environnement. Ainsi, la France a adopté dès 2017 une loi pionnière relative au devoir de vigilance des sociétés Certains de ces textes font l'objet d'un processus de simplification qui préserve leurs objectifs politiques, en particulier le projet dit "omnibus durabilité" proposé par la Commission en février 2025 et qui doit prochainement faire l'objet de discussions entre le Parlement européen et le Conseil. Cette mesure de simplification permettra de lutter contre les atteintes aux droits de l'homme et à l'environnement, sans représenter un fardeau administratif excessif pour la compétitivité des plus petites entreprises. At the international level, France is complying with the UN's principles on companies and human rights, as well as the OECD's principles on the responsible conduct of multinational companies and the norms set by the OIT.

In this.

Context, we support the project of an internationally legally binding instrument on transnational companies and other companies and human rights. We think that this text, provided that it is realistic, clear and precise, and opportunities to review the proposals of your presidency, as well as the notes of the legal experts. As a member of the group of friends of the presidency, France welcomes the presence of other delegations, organizations of civil society, unions and companies mobilized. We are aware, Mr. President, of the scope and difficulty of the task that remains to be accomplished collectively and under your direction. France renews its full support in this process that we hope.

Thank you.

Portugal has the floor.

We commend you for your commitment to the mandate of this working group, as well as your colleagues from the Permanent Mission of Ecuador for their work in the past year. especially on the implementation of the conclusions and recommendations of the 10th session of the 2025 map and the roadmap and of decision 56/116 in a transparent and inclusive manner. With more time, resources and technical support for meaningful discussions, the intersessional consultations have proven to be useful opportunities to discuss the legally binding instrument in depth, beyond the regular sessions of the working group and in a substantive way, thanks to the support of the legal experts. In this regard, we thank you for the timely circulation of the 2026 roadmap. As one of the friends of the chair, Portugal supports your efforts to advance this process and remains available to assist you in this regard. Mr. Chair, rapporteur, more than 10 years since the establishment of this working group, we consider there is wide consensus on the existing gaps in the global normative framework for human rights protection regarding business-related challenges. Portugal reaffirms its support to a balanced, encompassing, consensus-based, and legally sound treaty on business and human rights, with provisions that can be enforced in domestic courts, closely aligned with the SDGs and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and that guarantee human rights due diligence and the implementation of corporate, environmental, and social responsibility measures. In Portugal, we're finalizing our national action plan in this area through a dedicated working group and have established a new national observatory aimed at monitoring responsible business conduct. We are closely following the ongoing revision of the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive as part of simplification efforts under the so-called Sustainability Omnibus. We aim to ensure that our national measures remain fully aligned with evolving European and international standards. We welcome recent developments in international law and recall the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice issued in July 2025, clarifying binding obligations for states to address climate change and protect the environment and recognizing the direct impact of environmental degradation on the enjoyment of human rights. Finally, we continue to implement OECD guidelines in this area. Mr. Chair, Rapporteur, as in many other countries with similar legislations, the LBI will ensure the creation of a level playing field for states and companies and reinforce the third pillar of the UNGPs, access to remedy, which we consider key for victims in today's globalized world. We thank you for your leadership and ensuring that significant results are soon to be yielded from this 10-year-long process. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much.

I now floor to.

The distinguished representative of Zambia.

Zambia has the floor. It seems it's not -- Zambia is not ready. I'm going to ask the representative of Mexico.

Muchas gracias, señor presidente. Nuestra delegación se une a las felicitaciones por el nombramiento. Quisiéramos agradecer por la convocatoria a este periodo de sesiones, así como por las consultas temáticas y metodológicas entre periodos de sesiones que usted y su equipo, con el apoyo de la Secretaría de la Oficina Anticorrupción, han realizado a lo largo del 2025, a efecto de implementar la decisión 56/116. Confiamos en que dichas consultas han propiciado discusiones más have enabled us to clarify doubts on technical or legal issues. As we have stated previously, Mexico is convinced of the importance of promoting respect and protection of human rights in the context of business activity. We are aware that there are business practices that can directly or indirectly affect the full enjoyment and enjoyment of human rights, especially those of people who are in a vulnerable situation. For this reason, we have accompanied the initiatives that have been impulsado en diversos foros internacionales y regionales, siendo los principios rectores de Naciones Unidas sobre empresas y derechos humanos uno de los ejemplos más importantes en este sentido. Sin embargo, además de dichos esfuerzos, Se requiere contar con reglas claras, tanto nacional como internacional, para que las compañías nacionales y transnacionales se conduzcan de manera respetuosa de los derechos humanos y hagan frente a las consecuencias negativas derivadas de sus actividades. La certeza y la seguridad jurídicas benefician no solo a la población y a las víctimas, sino también a los Estados y a las empresas mismas. Por ello, reiteramos una vez más que un instrumento jurídicamente vinculante puede abonar a una mayor y mejor protección de los derechos humanos, incluyendo el acceso a la justicia y a medios de reparación para las víctimas. Señor Presidente, relator, siempre podrá contar con una participación constructiva de nuestra delegación. Expresaremos algunas sugerencias sobre los artículos 12 a 24. Thank you very much. Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Indonesia welcomes the convening of this session and supports Your Excellency's re-election as Chair-Rapporteur.

We express our full confidence in your leadership to steer this working group towards meaningful progress in elaborating an LBI.

We highlight the commendable work of the Chair-Rapporteur and his team to ensure full.

Implementation of the Council's decision 56/116, including the holding of intersessional consultations with legal experts this year.

We believe the outcome of consultation can help bridge differences, enhance legal clarity, and advance convergence among states.

Mr. Chair, Indonesia maintains its firm position in support of an LBI that is faithful.

To the mandate of Resolution 26/9.

We recall that the cross-border nature of potential human rights impacts arising from TNC activities.

Demands stronger interstate cooperation and binding norms. A focused LBI will reinforce states' ability as duty bearers to protect the rights of their peoples against abuses.

That domestic legal regimes alone may be unable to address.

We therefore urge the working group to preserve this approach as we move to the negotiation.

Of Articles 12 to 24 this week.

For this cluster of articles.

We underline the importance of maintaining coherence with other existing international human rights treaties, especially on provisions.

Related to institutional arrangements.

Mr. Chair, Indonesia will engage in good.

Faith during our deliberation and calls for broader and more active participation by all member states.

We stand ready to work with other delegations in delivering a legal sound instrument that will close existing gap in international law on business activities of TNCs and human rights in full alignment with Resolution 26/9. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Muchas gracias. Thank you very much.

The following speaker is the distinguished representative of Brazil. You have the floor, please.

Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chair-Rapporteur. Brazil would like to congratulate you on the election as Chair-Rapporteur and the Ecuadorian chairmanship on the work for the advancement of this process. We thank the Secretariat for the efforts in organizing the intersessional consultation and this session. Brazil is again pleased to take part in the discussions for a future multilateral legally binding instrument on business and human rights. We recognize the complexity of the issues raised in the talks. We note that the draft instrument before us remains a working document. We are guided by the principle of the primacy of human rights and hoping that negotiations will lead to an agreement that will help advance the protection and respect for human rights in the context of business activities, an agreement that will contribute to the development of international human rights law. We reaffirm our understanding that the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, unanimously endorsed by the Human Rights Council, constitutes a fundamental reference for discussions related to business and human rights. The principles should guide our work to reach a valuable document to bring full respect for human rights as a fundamental guiding factor for business activities. An agreement reached must be accepted and eventually implementable by a considerable share of the international community. Brazil reiterates its position on the scope of the instrument. Brazil is of the view that a legally binding instrument should encompass all business enterprises, regardless of size, sector, location, ownership, and structure. Broadening the scope serves our shared goal of enhancing the promotion and protection of human rights. Limiting the scope to a group of companies or certain types of activities would create protection gaps and render implementation ineffective in too many occasions. Also, restricting a human rights protection instrument to a limited group of enterprises poses fundamental conceptual questions and constitutional issues. We must find the right balance if you want an effective and viable instrument that can be adopted by a large representative group of countries. A balanced approach seems to be the key to a broad acceptance and effectiveness of any future legally binding instrument. We must seek the highest values and standards while addressing the constraints to implementation on the ground everywhere. By having a protective constitution and legislation with respects to human rights, Brazil also recognizes the different views regarding the national context for a future legally binding instrument and the different progressive stages for the implementation of all human rights for all. In that connection, the instrument shall not impose a disproportionate burden on developing countries and their small and medium-sized enterprises. Brazil welcomes the participation of civil society organizations, academia, as well as representatives of the business communities. We thank them for expressing their views and sending concrete contributions for the negotiations. Brazil reaffirms its readiness to continue engaging in the work of the IGWG with all stakeholders, with a view to reaching a balanced and effective document. We look forward to a productive session. Thank you.

Thank you very much. The distinguished representative of Australia.

You have the floor, please.

Australia thanks the Chair for convening the 11th session of the Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group on Transnational Corporations and Other Business Enterprises. While we are not in a position to participate in the substantive negotiations, we welcome the opportunity to again share our reflections. We recognize the momentum generated at the last session and through intersessional consultations over the last year. Structured consultation amongst member states, together with the support of the intersessional consultations informed by legal international experts, has resulted in a maturing of negotiations. We encourage greater engagement with businesses, employee organisations, and affected communities to generate understanding and broad consensus on the shape and function of the draft LBI. Australia continues to have concerns with the proposed text of the draft instrument. These ongoing concerns relate to the scope of the draft instrument, particularly in relation to jurisdiction, definitions of entities, and lack of clarity over key terms in the current text. We also consider there is a lack of clarity as to how the instrument is intended to be implemented and interact with existing bodies of international law, particularly international human rights law. This forum is an opportunity to integrate and implement the consensus-based UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, which lie at the heart of business and human rights. Australia continues to monitor the negotiation of the draft instrument with interest, and while not participating in the negotiations, we will consider the outcomes of the 11th session carefully.

Muchas gracias. Thank you very much. I now give the floor to the representative of Germany.

You have the floor, please.

Yes, thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Germany aligns itself with the statement of the European Union, and we would like to thank you and the group of friends of the chair, as well as the community and business human rights for their efforts to bring the process forward. Germany remains committed to protecting human rights globally and has followed closely the LBI negotiations since their beginning in 2014. We have also followed the 10th negotiation round last year. We commend the chair rapporteur for his constructive efforts to improve the negotiations, including the consultations during the intersessional period this year, which have, in our view, proven to be very useful and constructive. We are looking forward to the scheduled continuation of these consultations and the further involvement of the legal experts also in 2026. Overall, notable progress has been achieved regarding binding standards for business and human rights in the last few years. In Germany, the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act has been in force for almost three years now. It is currently undergoing a revision aimed at reducing the administrative burden on companies while maintaining a strong level of protection. At the EU level, the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive is undergoing a similar revision. Against this background, we believe this is the right moment to reflect on the appropriate shape a future legally binding instrument at the global level could take. The German Supply Chain Act and the European Directive have in common that they contain due diligence provisions and provisions on access to remedy based on the UN guiding principles on business and human rights. And we believe that this kind of approach can be a source of inspiration in the ongoing LBI negotiations. In this respect, we welcome renewed efforts for achieving a broad consensus across all regions and legal systems, and are looking forward to the further discussions during this session.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Rapporteur. Thank you.

You have the floor, please.

Thank you, Chair. First, I would like to express my gratitude to the Chair-Rapporteur and the OHCHR Secretariat for convening this session. Japan, based on the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, formulated a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights in 2020. We have since then been creating various guidelines and other materials for companies and promoting respect for human rights in public procurement. Currently, we are in the process of revising the NAP to make it more effective. Japan believes that it is extremely important for all stakeholders to take concrete actions based on the UNGPs. For our part, we have been conducting seminars and training mainly in Asian countries where many Japanese companies operate, while also supporting the formulation and implementation of NAPs by other countries. Japan appreciates the Chair Rapporteur's efforts this year and hopes that the semantic consultations will lead to more meaningful discussion in this working group. As emphasized last year, Japan considers that as a prospective LBRI, the draft document must be realistic, effective, and balanced so that many countries can agree on its fundamental content. Therefore, the draft should be based on the UNGPs, which reflect a broad consensus among relevant stakeholders, and sufficient discussion should be held to ensure that the views of the wide range of relevant countries, businesses, and other stakeholders are reflected. Japan believes that in various provisions of the current draft, improvement related to fundamental points are needed. In our view, the text is therefore not yet ideal as an instrument to achieve the common goal of promoting and protecting human rights in the context of corporate activities. Based on the progress made in this initiative so far, JFAI will provide specific comments on each provision during this session. However, please note that our interventions aim to point out significant issues in the current draft and are not exhaustive. Silence on specific parts should not be understood as consent. Furthermore, I would like to state that we understand that the role of the legal experts should remain complementary, for example, by providing legal insights that promote informed discussion when debates reach an impasse. Lastly, we commit to continuing our efforts to promote and protect human rights in this field in keeping with the spirit of the UNGPs, which reflect a broad consensus among relevant stakeholders. Thank you, Mr. Chair, rapporteur.

Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank the representative for Colombia.

You have the floor.

Thank you very much, Chair.

Honorable President, the negotiation representatives of the different states and other stakeholders. In first place, Mr. President, I want to mention that Colombia celebrates its election again in charge of these negotiations and thanks for the activities and actions that have been carried out for this process, for this process to advance in a transparent and clear way in accordance with the mandate of the working group. Now, the Colombian State, according to its political charter, recognizes that human rights are universal, indivisible, interrelated and interdependent. This implies the promotion of respect, the guarantee, and the discrimination of civil, political, economic, social, cultural, and environmental rights. In this framework, the State places in the center of the defense of rights and fundamental freedoms, and against eventual por su restablecimiento y reparación efectiva. Para Colombia, es fundamental la promoción y protección de los derechos fundamentales y de los derechos humanos internacionalmente reconocidos, los cuales se marcan en obligaciones preexistentes, tanto en el ámbito nacional como internacional. El Estado colombiano continúa fomentando el comercio internacional y la inversión extranjera, realizando los ajustes necesarios para responder a desafíos como la agudización del hambre y el cumplimiento internacionales en materia de derechos humanos. En ese sentido, Colombia promueve un modelo de comercio e inversiones justas, basados en el principio fundamental de respeto a las personas, al medio ambiente y sus defensores. En coherencia con lo anterior, el Estado colombiano ha reconocido e implementado los principios rectores de Naciones Unidas sobre empresas y derechos humanos, mediante la adopción de los planes nacionales de acción, del 2015 al 2020. 2018, and the 2020-2022. Todos estos orientados a aplicar esos principios a nivel interno y asegurar así la plena efectividad de los derechos humanos en el marco de las actividades empresariales. En consecuencia, el gobierno colombiano ha promovido espacios internos de diálogo interinstitucional con la sociedad civil, la academia, el sector empresarial, todos orientados al establecimiento de políticas y lineamientos jurídicos que regulen la actividad that regulate business activity. That's exactly right. That's exactly right. Es por esto que nuestro gobierno, a través del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y la misión de Colombia entre las Naciones Unidas en Ginebra, ha priorizado la participación activa en el proceso de negociación del instrumento jurídicamente vinculante ante el Grupo Intergubernamental de Composición Abierta sobre Empresas Transnacionales y otras empresas comerciales en la esfera de derechos humanos, establecido mediante la resolución 20. del Consejo de Derechos Humanos de Naciones Unidas, adoptada en su sexto periodo de sesiones del 26 de junio de 2014. Por otro lado, la Presidenta de la República, a través de la Consejería Presidencial para los Derechos Humanos y el Derecho Internacional Humanitario, adelantó un análisis profundo, participativo y con enfoque diferencial para establecer una línea base sobre la situación de los derechos humanos en el contexto de la operación empresarial, así como sobre la implementación del marco de empresas y el Este estudio es un componente esencial para la formulación de políticas públicas que promuevan el respeto y la protección de los derechos humanos en la actividad empresarial y orienten las políticas hacia un desarrollo sostenible y equitativo. En la misma línea, en la agenda nacional se impulsan iniciativas legislativas y regulatorias en la materia a saber. En primer lugar, el proyecto de ley por medio del cual se establecen disposiciones en materia de derechos humanos a las empresas. Se garantizan mecanismos de acceso a la justicia y reparación integral y se dictan otras disposiciones que fue radicado el 31 de julio del presente año. Y en segundo lugar, tenemos el proyecto de ley por medio del cual se establece el régimen de responsabilidad penal para personas jurídicas que fue radicado el 31 de octubre del 2024. También tenemos el proyecto de decreto por el cual se reglamentan las acciones institucionales de las entidades de la rama ejecutiva del orden nacional para articular y fortalecer la respuesta institucional frente a la protección de los derechos humanos en el contexto de las actividades empresariales en el marco de obligaciones internacionales en materia de derechos humanos, que se encuentra en construcción por la Consejería Presidencial para los Derechos Humanos y el Derecho Internacional Humanitario. En este contexto, es fundamental reconocer que todos First, it's essential to establish clear and legally binding obligations for companies that not only limit to processes of due diligence, but include explicit duties of respect, promotion, and protection of human rights formulated in the language of human rights. Second, special attention to the armed conflict, its impacts, and the responsibilities of companies in contexts of violence. Third, It's indispensable to prioritize access to justice for the victims, as well as to ensure effective protection for the people and communities affected by business activities. Next. niños, niñas y adolescentes, personas con discapacidad, personas mayores, víctimas de conflicto armado, personas defensoras de derechos humanos y del medio ambiente, líderes y lideresas sociales, población migrante y claramente población LGTBIQ+. Se debe definir también con claridad qué se entiende por empresas transnacionales conforme a la resolución 29 del Consejo de Derechos Humanos, que establece que estas son el objeto del instrumento jurídicamente vinculante. Esta definición definitivamente crucial para evitar que se impongan obligaciones desproporcionadas a las micro, pequeñas y medianas empresas, así como a pequeños productores y empresarios, a quienes generalmente no cuentan con capacidad institucional y financiera para implementar procesos de debida diligencia y que en su mayoría no son responsables de violaciones de derechos humanos a escala transnacional. Así mismo, es necesario regular toda la cadena de valor y suministro, no solamente la casa matriz de las empresas, sino, sin embargo, esto va a hacerse estableciendo obligaciones y responsabilidad de carácter diferenciado según el eslabón de la cadena y las capacidades y tamaño de los involucrados. En este orden de ideas, la delegación de Colombia apoya la labor que pueda adelantarse desde la presidencia para avanzar en la agenda propuesta conforme al actual borrador de un instrumento jurídicamente vinculante y que queda atento And we look forward to the interactive discussion, not binding, that will arise in accordance with the documents presented as a result of the thematic intersectoral consultations.

Thank you very much, Chair. Thank you very much.

I'm going to be followed by the representative of Paraguay, who will be followed by South Africa, Egypt, the State of Qatar, Honduras and Cameroon. The Paraguayan representative has the floor. Being a same as -- In that case, we will continue with South Africa.

Thank you, Chairperson. South Africa wishes to express our appreciation to you for your continued stewardship of this important process. We also commend the Secretariat and all stakeholders with a sustained engagement in advancing the work of this working group. This session marks another important step in our collective endeavor to elaborate a legally binding instrument on transnational cooperation and other business enterprises with respect to human rights. From the outset, South Africa and many countries of the global south have consistently underscored that the goal of this process is to address the persistent accountability gaps in the global economic system that have too often left victims without remedy and states without the means to effectively uphold the human rights obligations. As we turn our attention this week to the continuation of the state-led negotiations on Articles 12 to 24 of the updated draft LBI, South Africa emphasizes the need for constructive, transparent, and inclusive dialogue that reflects the balance between legitimate interest of states, rights holders, and business enterprises. We approach these negotiations We approach these negotiations, uh, with the expectations that they will further strengthen provisions related to access to justice, international cooperation, mutual legal assistance, and monitoring mechanisms, which are central to ensuring the instrument's effectiveness. We also reiterate the importance of preserving the state-driven and consensus-oriented nature of this process in line with the principles agreed by this working group and the decisions of the Human Rights Council. South Africa remains committed to working with all the delegations and stakeholders towards a text that is fair, implementable, and reflective of the aspirations and realities of the developing countries. I thank you, Chairperson.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson.

In the beginning, I wish to join others in congratulating you on your re-election to chair the working group during the 11th session. This affirms our collective confidence in your ability to guide and steer the work and the deliberations. and our joint aspirations to your role. I wish also to extend our congratulations to Ecuador for being elected to the membership of the Human Rights Council. Egypt fully supports the mandate of the Open-ended Intergovernmental Working Group as established by Human Rights Council Resolution 26/9. As transnational corporations contribute to investment and socioeconomic development worldwide, We strongly believe that the elaboration of a legally binding instrument to regulate their activities will certainly strengthen the principles of universality and the dependence and the visibility of human rights, as well as the principle of non-discrimination, and shall also enhance the access to adequate and effective remedies for victims. This instrument will better enable states to achieve sustainable development while upholding fundamental rights and respecting international human rights law. shall strike a balance between the private interest of corporations and the public interest of the people, allowing for equitable and inclusive development. It's clear to us that in spite the importance of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, it's no longer sufficient to rely on voluntary soft law or soft law instruments that are not enforceable. With respect to the scope, we reiterate our will and longstanding position highlighted in previous sessions that it should remain faithful to the mandate in the Resolution 26/9, which limits the scope of the LBI to the activities of transnational corporations and business enterprises, shall not be extended to local SMEs. Given the importance Egypt attaches to the work of the open-ended intergovernmental working group, and the support to the formal state-led process in developing this LBI. I wish to reiterate what you, Mr. Chair Rapporteur, unequivocally highlighted during the presenting the methodology, that the intercessional consultations, the deliberations within its summary report shall inform and support the session as mandated in OP 2 and Resolution 56/116. and has no legal status, nor can alter the nature of this state-led process, nor interfere with drafting the LBI, rather a complementary pathway that help delegates and experts to better understand their diverging positions and trying to bring us closer to a common position. To this end, we remain ready to negotiate openly, constructively, and in good faith with other member states. Thank you, Chair Rapporteur.

Muchas gracias. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I have the floor, please.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, rapporteur. We congratulate you on your re-election, and we wish to thank you for the work undertaken during the intersessional consultations and in preparation for this session. More than 10 years after the establishment of this working group, corporate power continues to expand unchecked, deepening global injustice, inequality, and environmental devastation. Transnational corporations are not neutral economic actors. They are key political agents that profit from conflict, occupation, and exploitation. In the occupied Palestinian territory, as reaffirmed by the latest report of the Special Rapporteur Albaneze, Corporate and financial actors remain complicit in sustaining an economy of occupation that has transformed into an economy of genocide. They provide technologies and weapons used against civilians, profit from the extraction of natural resources under occupation, and enable the entrenchment of illegal settlements. This is not an isolated reality, but a warning of what unregulated corporate conduct leads to across our world. And it leaves bare the cost of our collective failure to adopt a binding instrument capable of regulating corporate conduct and ensuring accountability. When this process began, its aim was clear, to regulate corporate power and protect people from corporate greed. Yet after a decade, that goal is being called into question. It is deeply concerning that some states, particularly from the global north, continue to undermine the dedicated participation of countries of the global south and to promote counter-agendas that prioritize political and economic interests over the rights of people. For the state of Palestine, this working group must not lose sight of its original purpose, to place human rights above profit and political convenience. This process was never about voluntary guidelines. It's about ending impunity and restoring the primacy of international law over corporate and political interests. After a decade of negotiations, our collective task is to move decisively from discussion to adoption, toward a treaty that guarantees accountability, protects those defending human rights and the environment, and ensures that no victim is left without remedy. The international community can no longer rely on voluntary frameworks while entire peoples are subjected to corporate-enabled dispossession, environmental destruction, and systematic exploitation. We therefore call on all delegations to engage constructively and in good faith. The treaty must affirm corporate obligations under international humanitarian law, human and criminal law, guarantee access to justice and universal jurisdiction, and establish effective enforcement and oversight mechanisms free from corporate capture. In this spirit, we appreciate the effort invested in the proposed redrafting of selected provisions of Articles 4 to 11 by the Chair. However, given that the proposed text was circulated in a very short notice, limiting our ability to conduct a comprehensive review and internal consultations, our engagement on this part of the session will necessarily remain limited. Palestine remains firmly committed to a process grounded on solidarity, transparency, and justice. We owe it to the victims of corporate greed in Palestine and across the globe, and to future generations, to deliver a treaty that ends impunity and re-centers human dignity at the heart of global economy. I thank you, Mr. Chair.

Muchas gracias. Thank you very much. To Saudi Arabia.

Shukra, and Saudi Arabia, and to the efforts of the team, and to the efforts of the team, and to the efforts of and anchored in just as in the kingdom, and the kingdom, and the kingdom, and the kingdom, and the kingdom. of any industry, and respect for judicial independence and respect for judicial independence. And in this context, the Kingdom considers that the materials under discussion in this round call for special attention, taking into account the sovereignty of the countries and their judicial systems, and their international commitments, especially in the fields of trade and investment, as any legal conflict between the current project and those commitments could affect trust between countries and partners. And from there, we should build any progress in the negotiations on a gradual and balanced approach, taking into account the commitments in the project and the sovereign and development interests of the countries. Mr. President, this meeting will discuss the summary report on what was discussed in the previous non-official meetings. On the informal, and with the confirmation that the report did not cover discussions and substantive proposals that were put forward in previous informal meetings, the Kingdom will advance its efforts in support of some of the proposals that the President has agreed to participate in to amend some of the draft agenda, which the Kingdom sees. that some of the suggestions made will help bring us closer together. Finally, the Kingdom renews its commitment to its positive and constructive involvement in the work of the team, which will enhance the

dialogue and ensure that the

standards are built on a broad consensus to achieve the common goal, which is to promote human rights in the context of corporate activities and other institutions.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Honduras has the floor.

Honduras saluda al grupo de trabajo y agradece al presidente relator. Thank you. Thank you. el cual consideramos debe continuar así. Valoramos que esta onceava sesión mantenga esa coherencia y de continuidad a la lectura del texto actualizado, permitiendo reflejar en tiempo real las propuestas de los Estados conforme a la práctica intergubernamental establecida. Honduras recibe con satisfacción la propuesta de hoja de ruta 2026, presentada en el marco de la decisión 56/116 del Consejo de Derechos Humanos, Consideramos que esta herramienta fortalecerá la planificación de los trabajos futuros, en particular las consultas interseccionales sobre responsabilidad jurídica, reparación integral y jurisdicción, elementos esenciales para la eficacia del tratado. Del mismo modo, reiteramos la relevancia del rol técnico de los expertos y expertas que acompañan las deliberaciones, el cual ha representado un importante apoyo to the deliberations between states. Finally, we want to reiterate our recognition of the leadership of the President Rapporteur, the Secretary, and the entire team of the Permanent Mission of Ecuador. Honduras will continue to participate constructively in this process, with the conviction that this instrument will contribute to closing the legal gaps that exist Y garantizar una protección efectiva de los derechos humanos frente a los impactos de las actividades empresariales de carácter transnacional y otras. Gracias, señor presidente.

Muchas gracias. El siguiente orador es el distinguido representante del Camerún, seguido de Uruguay, República Islámica de Irán y Kuwait. El distinguido representante del Camerún tiene la palabra.

Cameroon, you address, ainsi qu'à votre équipe, ces chaleureuses félicitations pour la poursuite de vos efforts constants en faveur d'un processus inclusif, constructif et orienté vers des résultats concrets. Nous vous remercions également pour la qualité du programme de travail préparé pour cette 11e session qui s'inscrit dans le strict respect de la feuille de route adoptée à l'issue de la 10e session. Monsieur le Président, mon pays se félicite des progrès qualitatifs et quantitatifs réalisés au cours the previous session, which has marked a decisive step in the process of negotiating the instrument, an international legally binding instrument on companies and human rights. The qualitative bonus observed stems from your enlightened leadership, which has ensured continuity, the method and transparency of the work. The increased participation of member states illustrates a renewed commitment and collective appropriation of the process. The poor precious des espèces juridiques, associated for la premiere fois de manière formelle, contributing to l'amélioration technique, the text, la mobilisation des organisations de la société civile, dont la contribution continue de nourrir utilement le débat. Le Cameroun salue également la tenue des consultations intercessions qui ont permis de maintenir la dynamique de dialogue et de consensus, conformément au calendrier défini lors de la 10e session. Nous saluons également la of the international community with an instrument that is balanced, based on cooperation, shared responsibility, and respect for human rights. My country reaffirms its attachment to the principle according to which the protection of human rights and the promotion of a responsible business environment are not antinomic, but complementary and mutually reinforcing.

As

a member of the group of friends of the presidency, Cameroon will continue to contribute in a constructive and pragmatic way to the search for compromise in view of a text that is consensual, legally sound and universally acceptable.

Thank you very much. La siguiente oradora es la distinguida representante del Uruguay. Tiene usted la palabra.

Gracias, señor Presidente Relator. Uruguay se suma a las felicitaciones por su nombramiento. Uruguay agradece la organización de esta onceava sesión y valora especialmente el compromiso y esfuerzo del Presidente Relator y del Grupo de Trabajo, estimándose que este proceso constituye una oportunidad para consolidar estándares internacionales que aseguren que el desarrollo económico y la actividad empresarial se conduzcan en stricto apego a los derechos humanos y al Estado de Derecho. Reiteramos nuestro firme compromiso con la protección de los derechos humanos en el contexto de actividades empresariales, promoviendo un enfoque que sea efectivo, inclusivo y participativo, que tenga en cuenta las experiencias nacionales y regionales y que garantice la protección de las víctimas, la seguridad jurídica y la coherencia normativa en la implementación del instrumento. Reafirmamos que el centro del instrumento debe ser la persona humana y protección efectiva de las víctimas, garantizando su derecho al acceso a la justicia y reparación. En ese sentido, resulta esencial que el texto contemple también medidas específicas para la protección de los grupos en situación de vulnerabilidad, incluyendo mujeres, niños, personas con discapacidad, pueblos indígenas, migrantes, refugiados, trabajadores rurales y comunidades afectadas, asegurando un enfoque de derechos humanos basado en la igualdad y la no discriminación. Consideramos fundamental que el instrumento mantenga plena coherencia con el derecho internacional de los derechos humanos y que promueva la articulación y complementariedad entre los marcos normativos internacionales y los sistemas jurídicos internos. Uruguay continuará participando de manera constructiva en este proceso, entendiendo que el objetivo común debe ser la adopción de un instrumento universal, equilibrado y efectivo, que refleje el compromiso compartido de los Estados con un sistema internacional más justo, equitativo y centrado en la dignidad humana, que promueva la responsabilidad

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Islamic Republic of Iran, you have the floor.

rapporteur. First of all, I would like to express our congratulations to Mr. Chair, rapporteur, and appreciation for organizing this session and providing us with the opportunity to continue our discussion on this important matter. The Islamic Republic of Iran believes that the legally binding instrument to ensure the accountability of transnational cooperation and other business enterprises for their human right impact is both timely and necessary, especially in light of the persistent gap that exists in international law in this regard. We are of the view that this draft instrument can contribute can contribute to establishing a more balanced and equitable system in which both states and transnational corporations shoulder their responsibility effectively. At the same time, it is essential that the final outcome fully respect national sovereignty and the right to development, and safeguard against any politicization or selective application. We reiterate our support for multilateral, inclusive, and constructive process, one that embraces all perspectives and remains centered on justice and remedy for victims. In this context, we cannot overlook the severe human rights consequences of illegal, unilateral, coercive measures and sanctions. These measures disproportionately affect the fundamental rights of people. In the targeted countries. Moreover, the overcompliance of enterprises with such measures further exacerbated human rights violation and creates a safe haven or justification for companies to persist in outlawful practices. This situation undermined the possibility of holding them accountable for extraterritorial human right violation. We trust that with collective will and mutual respect, this process will lead to an outcome that upholds justice, sovereignty, and human dignity. Thank you.

Thank you very much. The next representative is Kuwait.

You have the floor, please.

Thank you, Chair.

We extend our congratulations to you on your appointment and take this opportunity to thank you for your continued work in the Intergovernmental Working Group. The State of Kuwait aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and emphasizes the importance of ensuring the international instrument that has to remain balanced and takes into account the interest of all states. while upholding the rule of law and its fundamental principles.

The state of Kuwait underscores the need to take into consideration the differing

capacities and resources of states, and to avoid imposing procedural burdens that go beyond what states voluntarily choose

in accordance with their national priorities.

Kuwait also supports the reaffirmed principle of respecting state sovereignty

and the freedom of each state to adopt appropriate mechanisms for dispute settlement. while being guided by international treaties that grant states the right to express reservations on provisions that are inconsistent

with their legal systems or national considerations.

Thank you, Chair.

Muchas gracias. Thank you very much. Do any other states

wish to intervene at this juncture?

That seems not to be the case. Por lo cual, me complace dar ahora la palabra a los representantes de las organizaciones de la sociedad civil y otros actores relevantes que deseen realizar declaraciones de carácter general, recordando, como siempre, la necesidad de que la sesión se desarrolle en un ambiente propicio para un trabajo eficaz y colegiado, por lo cual agradezco contar con la colaboración de todos. and other relevant states and other relevant states and other relevant states and other relevant states and other relevant statements remain fair and ensuring that their statements remain fair and ensuring that their statements remain fair and ensuring that

their norm throughout this session this week.

First of all, I would like to give the floor to the International

please.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, rapporteur. As the institutional representative of more than 45 million companies worldwide, ICC, the International Chamber of Commerce, recognizes the critical importance of ensuring that businesses have the knowledge, skills, and tools to respect human rights. ICC is a global organization founded over 100 years ago the only business organization with observer status at the UN. We support the international community through the promotion of international trade and the delivery of practical tools and services to help businesses adapt and meet the challenges of globalization towards a more inclusive and sustainable future. ICC's purpose is to make a positive contribution to work to promote high levels of corporate responsibility, clear ethical principles for the conduct of all business, including cross-border business. We acknowledge the efforts being put in place behind the work to develop a legally binding instrument on business and human rights, and we value the importance of meaningful and respectful consultations where different views are taken into account, including the views of business that is, after all, a key stakeholder group impacted by the proposed instrument. In fact, many businesses are leading when it comes to prevention of and protection against human rights violations. We also would like to respectfully underscore our concern, notwithstanding the considerable work being put into developing this draft, on the lack of traction and participation from many states over 10 years on from adoption of the UN resolution to develop this instrument. For any instrument to succeed in this area, it needs to have the engagement of a critical mass of countries. We continue to believe that the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights represent a transformational roadmap to a future where people and enterprises thrive together. The work of embedding the UNGPs has been indisputably spreading through corporate practices. With risk assessments, enhanced supply chain due diligence, human rights trainings, all now routinely implemented in many enterprises, it's imperative that we all continue to work together to accelerate these trends. As noted before, however, ICC still remains concerned at the current treaty-based approach in this forum. In this context, we would like to emphasize the opportunity to emphasize We would like that any future frameworks be internationally consistent and align fully and completely with the standards in the UN Guiding Principles. We underscore our view that any potential standard for business activities would need to apply to all businesses, not just international business. We encourage governments considering possible legislative initiatives to have full regard to these two principles as a cornerstone for meeting business and human rights challenges, and to engage in multi-stakeholder consultations with all parties as policies are being developed. Thank you.

Thank you very much. National Advisory Commission for Human Rights.

Il est primordial que le groupe de travail intergouvernemental soit guidé par les objectifs qui ont conduit à sa création. Le respect et la protection des droits humains, universels, indivisibles et interdépendants dans le contexte des activités des entreprises, est une condition nécessaire et indispensable à une économie mondiale capable de répondre aux défis contemporains. La CNCDH salue les efforts pour faire avancer le processus, y compris par l'organisation de consultations thématiques intercession, conformément à la décision 5617 du Conseil des droits de l'homme. Elle espère que les délégations sauront saisir cette opportunité pour œuvrer à l'harmonisation des obligations en la matière dans un esprit de coopération et d'engagement commun en faveur des valeurs universelles proclamées il y a plus de 75 ans, et pour renforcer l'action collective face à la triple crise planétaire qui constitue un défi existentiel pour l'humanité. For this, the UNCDF regularly provides recommendations to the international community and acts alongside other UNCDFs to achieve a broad interregional support in favour of the adoption of a solid and ambitious treaty. Mr. President, rapporteur, the UNCDF stands ready to continue to contribute to achieve this ambition. Thank you.

Muchas gracias. Thank you very much. I offer the word to the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions.

Mr. Chairperson, rapporteur, this statement is delivered on behalf of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions, which comprises 118 national human rights institutions. As independent institutions established in line with the Paris Principles, NHRIs are mandated to promote and protect human rights, including in the context of business activities. GANRI reiterates its strong support for the adoption and implementation of a legally binding instrument on business and human rights, which could address gaps in the protection and accountability of global value chains, particularly those associated with transnational business activities. This position aligns with GANRI's commitment to advancing the effective implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, particularly in today's era of conflict, climate crisis, rapidly evolving technologies, and persistent inequalities. GANRI urges all states to engage actively and constructively in this session in a transparent and inclusive manner. This engagement should aim to build broad, cross-regional support for an instrument that strengthens the prevention of human rights violations and ensures access to redress in the context of business activities. GANHRI also calls on states to meaningfully engage with NHRIs and draw on their expertise throughout the drafting process. Their role in facilitating the future implementation and monitoring of the instrument should be explicitly recognized. GANRI has released a position paper outlining its views on the articles of the updated draft under discussion during the session and invites member states to consider its recommendations. Ganryu is fully committed to contributing its expertise to ensure that the instrument strengthens protection and accountability and upholds the rights of all. I thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank

you. And I'm looking forward to ESCR.net.

ESCR.net, please.

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. I speak on behalf of ESCRnet, a network of over 280 members. We are here to advance a legally binding instrument to end the unchecked power of transnational corporations. But we must be honest about what we have seen in the last 11 years of this process. This long-awaited, hard-fought opportunity is being systematically targeted. Provisions that were designed to protect communities in conflict-affected areas, including those living under occupation, have been removed or diluted, despite repeated calls from states like Palestine, South Africa, Namibia, and others. References to international humanitarian law, to the protection of human rights defenders, and even the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment are slowly being erased or softened under pressure. This is not a coincidence. This is a strategy, and it mirrors what we see on the ground in Palestine and across the global south, where corporate capture of political, legislative, judicial, economic structures and gaps in international law are used to shield the powerful and sacrifice the vulnerable. In Palestine, we know this danger too well. As documented in the recent report of the Special Rapporteur on Palestine, from economy of occupation to economy of genocide, corporate actors are embedded in the machinery of apartheid and military aggression, from the pillaging of our resources to the poisoning of our air and water, to the fueling of warplanes that raze our neighborhoods and kill our people. For what? For profit. These corporate actors are shamefully represented by a corporate lobby that seeks to maintain that there is no binding mechanism to stop them from interfering in policy setting and perpetuation of violence. Instead, those calling for accountability are being smeared, silenced, and sanctioned. But the pursuit of the truth for justice and accountability will continue. As affirmed by the ICJ in 2024 and 2025, states must not aid or assist unlawful situations, and must protect our rights. These principles must shape this treaty. We call on states, especially from the global south, to stand firm, to not allow this treaty to become another tool of corporate greenwashing or legal evasion. And this intervention is not a plea for charity or exceptionalism. It's a demand to improve our corporate accountability laws and for the universal application of the law. It's a demand for the world to stop enabling corporate profit from destruction. Let this be a moment when this working group says no more loopholes, no more voluntary codes, no more impunity. Let this be a moment you codify justice for people, for the planet, for Palestine. Thank you.

Thank you very much. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

This statement is made on behalf of ISHR, Forum Asia, CL, and FIAN International. We believe more than ever that binding rules and better regulation of businesses are fundamental. We reiterate our commitment to continue engaging in the negotiations, and we welcome the efforts by the Chair to advance the process this year. However, we regret that the process has not implemented measures such as hybrid modalities or video messages to guarantee the participation of human right defenders, civil society organizations, and representatives of communities impacted by business activities. This is particularly important for those who have been impacted by the reduction of funding by different governments, the lack of visa access, and other obstacles to engage in person in Geneva. We would like to highlight the urgent need for the LBI to provide comprehensive and enforceable protection for human right defenders, indigenous peoples, people working in rural areas, and other affected communities who are at the front line of resisting corporate abuses. This would not be a mere formality. This would effectively respond to the reality in many regions. For example, between 2023 and 2024 alone, there were over 450 incidents of harassment against environmental, land, and community-based defenders in Asia. This includes reprisals, violence, criminalization, harassment, and arbitrary arrest, including also strategic lawsuits against public participation. Moreover, this session is the first one after the delivery of two landmark advisory opinions on climate change by the International Court of Justice and the Inter-American Court on Human Rights. The ICJ addressed how the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment can be adversely impacted by business operations and activities and underscored that the states are engaging in international wrongful acts when failing to protect against emissions. This includes by not regulating private actors. These developments demonstrate a legal grounding for explicitly including the right to a healthy environment within the LBI. Since the removal of environmental language in the current draft, many delegations have expressed and demanded its reinsertion, including in the general segment section today. An instrument that aims to regulate business activities will not achieve its goal if it does not expressly include environmental rights as part of its material scope. We urge all the states to negotiate, adopt, and protect language that explicitly safeguards defenders and impacted communities, and to ensure this treaty genuinely prioritizes both people and the protection of the planet over corporate interests. Thank you.

Muchas gracias. Ofrezco la palabra a continuación a Action Aid.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Rapporteur. Corporate human rights abuses are not gender neutral, and so I deliver a statement on behalf of the Feminists for a Binding Treaty, a network that has been working collectively to advocate for a gender responsive and feminist treaty since 2016. We express concern over how narratives fueling an anti-rights agenda are impacting the enjoyment of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women and the LGBTIQ+ communities, creating pushback on climate agendas, and enabling profiting from genocide, as we see happening in Palestine. We call on the international community to uphold accountability and ensure that human rights are not sacrificed for political or economic gain. The UN liquidity crisis and the ongoing wave of defunding and deregulation are impacting civic space, communities, and civil society's participation worldwide. As a woman human rights defender standing alongside my feminist comrades, I speak today knowing many of us may not have this chance next year. As we continue to see ideological resistance to equal rights and dissent, where several actors, including some states and business lobbies, have mobilized against the inclusion of gender-responsive language, including in these treaty negotiations. Corporate impunity does not affect everyone equally. Women, girls, and gender-diverse people face disproportionate harm from extractive industries, sexual and gender-based violence and harassment, land dispossession, labor exploitation, and environmental degradation linked to operations of a transnational character. A legally binding treaty that addresses corporate abuses and violations while centering the primacy of human rights, as well as the voices, rights, experiences, and visions of women and gender diverse people, affected communities, human rights defenders, especially in the global south, is urgent. We aim to challenge colonial legacies, corporate greed and capture, and patriarchal institutions, because again, corporate human rights abuses are not gender neutral. Therefore, as feminists, we demand that throughout the treaty, One, gendered impacts are recognized and addressed. Two, intersectional vulnerabilities are considered. And three, women's voices and leadership are central to decision-making, accountability, and remedy mechanisms. I thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much.

Next is the International Transport Workers' Federation. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. I speak on behalf of over 200 million workers belonging to the global trade union organizations ITUC, BWI, EI, IndustriALL, ITF, IUF, IFJ, PSI, and UNI. Chair, the global unions congratulate you, your team, and the OHCHR for the extensive work carried out during the intercessional period to advance the development of the LBI. We regret that the Global Trade Union Movement was unable to participate in all of the intersessional sittings due to capacity constraints. We believe that it will be critical to explore remote participation options for the intersessional consultations envisaged in the proposed 2026 roadmap to ensure full inclusivity, especially of non-Geneva-based CSOs and human rights defenders. Chair, we appreciate the timely circulation of the summary report on the thematic consultations, the annex containing the suggested redrafting of Articles 4 to 11, and the proposed 2026 roadmap. In relation to the annex, we particularly appreciate the format, the genuine attempt at finding compromise language, and consideration of additional language and sources of international human rights law to help inspire the LBI. We also know that the presentation of your proposals on Articles 4 to 11 at this session will have no legal status and that they are only intended to reflect the possible areas of convergence, solutions, and/or options. Indeed, it will be important to ensure that the eventual deliberations on this cluster of articles focus not only on the redrafting proposals, but also the concrete textual proposals from states and non-state participants, and the possible reintroduction of critical elements from the third revised draft. In conclusion, Chair, with multilateralism under attack, the international legal order besieged, corporate complicity in international crimes going unpunished, and regulatory efforts to clamp down on abusive business practices being dismantled in certain parts of the world, the process to develop an LBI represents a bulwark against corporate impunity. At this 11th session, the global labor movement renews its call for an LBI that ensures justice and accountability for millions of workers in global supply chains. I thank you, Chair.

Muchas gracias. Ofrezco la palabra a Franciscans International.

Mr. Chairperson, I speak on behalf of Franciscans International. We are part of the treaty alliance, ESCRnet, and Feminists for a Binding Treaty. Franciscans International has been engaged with the process since the establishment of the IGWG 11 years ago. Our commitment to the realization of a binding treaty stems directly from concerns raised by our partners around the world. what we experience and witness through our UN mechanisms and processes. Transnational corporations not only violate human rights, but are also involved in atrocity crimes. The arms industry has recorded record profits as a result of Israel's genocide in Gaza, with weapons and surveillance companies marketing their products as battle-tested. Fossil fuel corporations, extractive industries, and others profit while destroying the environment and aggravating climate change. Earlier this month, it was reported that a coalition of companies called on the EU to repeal its Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. just months after the ICJ advisory opinion underscored state obligations in regard to regulation of private actors. Companies are emboldened to disregard their responsibility to respect international human rights and humanitarian law when their power and wealth grow in a context of impunity. Accordingly, we appreciate the efforts made by the Chair to move the process forward, including by holding intersessional meetings. We continue to call on the Chair to ensure that civil society is able to fully participate in the process, announcing the dates of intersessionals with sufficient notice or conducting them in hybrid format. This ensures that information is shared in advance in a transparent manner so that we can adequately prepare. We note the delayed transmission of the suggested redrafting of selected provisions that will be discussed this week. We also remain concerned about the continued participation of corporate actors throughout the process. We urge the Chair to ensure that the concerns, voices, and communities affected by transnational corporations are at the center as we continue to move forward towards a strong LBI that will serve to protect people and the planet. Thank you for your consideration.

Muchas gracias. Thank you for the floor to Sids.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. On behalf of CCFD-Terre Solidaire, DKA Austria, Brotherly Deland, Trocaire, Fasten Action, and Franciscans International, we wish to express our appreciation for your continued efforts to provide the structure and clarity to this 11th session and for maintaining a constructive roadmap that includes both state-led negotiations and intersessional thematic consultations. We particularly welcome the use of non-papers to support convergence on complex issues.

However, we regret.

That the summary report, which includes wording proposals, was issued only a few days prior to the negotiation week, providing limited opportunity for a thorough analysis to inform the negotiations. We respectfully request you, Chair, to release the summary with additional time.

Chair.

In the broader political context, we remain concerned that recent policy developments in the European Union risk undermining hard-won progress toward corporate accountability. We regret that the EU's earlier call for a legally binding instrument that pursues an integrated approach to respecting human rights and combating environmental degradation and climate change contrast with the ongoing revision of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, for example, regarding the proposed removal of the obligation for companies to put into effect climate transition plans and the removal of an EU-wide civil liability regime. We hope that the EU will show renewed leadership and coherence between its internal and international commitments. Finally, Chair, we call for a clear roadmap toward the conclusion of these negotiations, which we understand might take place on 2027. We kindly ask you, Chair, that this roadmap maintains a participatory approach that prioritizes the voice of victims and affected communities so that the process delivers a strong, victim-centered, and enforceable binding instrument. After more than a decade of dialogue, the credibility of this process depends on our collective resolve to translate commitment into action. In this sense, we strongly support Palestine call in their general statement to move from discussion to adoption.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you very much.

I have a last speaker for the morning.

I hope I pronounced it correctly.

of SUTVIND, part of the Austrian Treaty Alliance, we welcome this updated LBI draft and the outcomes of the intercessional consultations as basis for further negotiations. Throughout the draft, children are consistently categorized as vulnerable, alongside groups such as migrants or older persons. This constitutes a failure to acknowledge the special and dependent status of children. It is a common occurrence that children do not possess their own financial resources.

Which consequently hinders their access to legal counsel.

Typically, children lack independent mobility, and children affected by child labor are not sufficiently literate to be familiar with their rights, which is further exacerbating their situation. Even requesting assistance from family members may not be an option, as they may themselves be victims of exploitative work environments, or may be actively exposing their children to such. Therefore, it is of utmost urgency to guarantee children to participate in ensuring access to justice, as suggested in the draft General Comment 27 of the Committee on the Rights of the Child. Merely promising special attention to children in the implementation of the articles does not offer sufficient protection. An additional multidisciplinary supervisory authority specifically for children is necessary. We hereby urge you to take these active measures now. Thank you.

Muchas gracias. Esto nos lleva al final de la reunión de esta mañana. Reanudaremos nuestro trabajo a las 3:00 en punto para continuar con la lista de oradores de intervenciones generales y posteriormente pasar al punto 4. Se levanta la sesión.

Muchas gracias.