THINK Lobby Corporate Social Justice Project Report 2023

This report outlines the progress and activities of the Corporate Social Justice (CSJ) Project, led by THINK Lobby under the Japan NGO Center for International Cooperation (JANIC).

The number of authoritarian countries in Asia is on the rise, and the civic space in the region, as monitored by CIVICUS¹⁾, is shrinking both online and offline due to numerous restrictive laws. Over two-thirds of the population in Asia lack freedom of expression.

Despite the silencing impact of authoritarian regimes, a positive trend is the adoption of the “Business and Human Rights” approach in Asia. Countries like Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and Pakistan are launching National Action Plans to implement Guiding Principles on business and human rights.

The Corporate Social Justice (CSJ) Project explores how the business sector, especially Japanese corporations, can contribute to promoting democracy in Asia within the context of business and human rights. Guidance and a self-checklist for responsible business conduct have been created to address fundamental inquiries into how companies can achieve social justice in countries facing structural issues such as discrimination, extreme poverty, suppression of people, corruption, and gender inequality.

The project’s primary objective is to engage corporations in promoting a just society in Asia, focusing on democratic governance and stakeholder engagement. Since FY2022, the project has developed guidance and a self-assessment checklist centered around two main themes: 1) democratic governance and management, and 2) promoting dialogue and engagement with various stakeholders. The checklist serves as a tool for companies to identify specific areas in which they can make tangible contributions to the realization of a "just society." By breaking down the broad concept of social justice into actionable items, companies can tailor their efforts to address particular aspects aligned with the project's overarching goals.

Key Action Areas:

The project identified 10 key action areas aligned with the UNGPs and SDG16, covering human rights, environmental responsibility, climate change, and fair operating practices in Sustainability and CSR. The outlined areas provide a comprehensive framework for companies to achieve a just society.

1. Respect for the human rights of stakeholders

2. Respect for human rights related to the industry, products and services, and countries and regions of operation

3. Promotion of DEI&J

4. Addressing climate change and “Just Transition”

5. Prevention of corruption and bribery

6. Appropriate tax payment

7. Appropriate political activities

8. Respect for the rule of law

9. Dialogue with rights holders

10. Access to remedies

In FY2023, two companies completed the pilot assessment using the draft checklist. The CSJ project is preparing a feedback sheet based on the results to refine the checklist for finalization.

The diagram (see Figure 1 below) illustrates the three key phases of a company's role in fostering a just society: firstly, addressing and avoiding negative impacts on human rights and the environment (Stage 1); secondly, integrating these concerns into business practices to generate value (Stage 2); and finally, demonstrating positive social impact (Stage 3). After laying the groundwork in “Stage 1” by tackling the negative impacts of corporate activities, the objective of "Stage 2" is to enhance corporate value (resulting in increased economic profit) through a focus on human rights and social justice. In “Stage 3,” companies are expected to demonstrate their influence in addressing structural issues. As influential players, they are tasked with positively impacting the entire industry and society at large. This involves elevating standards and establishing industry-wide rules, prioritizing the greater good over individual profits.

Figure 1: Three key phases of a company’s role in fostering a just society

The CSJ project organized a seminar during JANIC’s annual event named HAPIC in November 2023, titled "Synergy Talks: Creating a Fair Future through Dialogue between Corporations and NGOs." The session highlighted the self-checklist's ability to measure corporate contributions to a just society and featured discussions among civil society, corporations, and the CSJ project. Through ongoing events and communication with stakeholders, the CSJ project aims to broaden its objectives and emphasize the importance of achieving a just society. The CSJ project has made significant strides in its second year, with successful pilot assessments and a session at the HAPIC event.

The goal for FY2024 is to disseminate this checklist to businesses. JANIC, as a network for civil society organizations, aims to facilitate dialogue between businesses and civil society for meaningful engagement, ensuring that business sectors actively collaborate with civil society to realize a just society in the Asian region.

Footnote

1. 1) CIVICUS is a global alliance of civil society organisations and activists dedicated to strengthening citizen action and civil society throughout the world. The CIVICUS Monitor is a research tool that provides close to real-time data on the state of civil society and civic freedoms in 196 countries. https://monitor.civicus.org/