Geneva: The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Trk, has raised concerns about the challenges posed by major corporations and rapidly advancing technologies in addressing rights abuses. Speaking at the opening of the 14th UN Forum on Business and Human Rights, Trk emphasized the growing influence of corporate power on social change and warned that without proper oversight, new technologies like generative artificial intelligence could be misused.
According to United Nations, Trk highlighted the potential for generative AI to be exploited for political or economic gain, which could lead to manipulation and distortion. He stressed the importance of implementing rules, safeguards, and independent oversight to keep pace with technological innovation.
Trk also addressed the issue of worker exploitation, noting the vulnerability of migrant workers, women, and those in informal jobs to abuse. He expressed concern over the rollback of laws requiring companies to respect human rights and called for an end to attacks on human rights defenders documenting corporate abuses.
In discussing the climate crisis, Trk criticized fossil fuel companies for prioritizing profits while the poorest communities suffer from environmental damage and displacement. He referenced the mixed outcomes of COP30 in Belém and warned that future generations may view inaction on climate change as a grave failure.
The human rights chief acknowledged recent court rulings in countries such as Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, Thailand, and Colombia, where companies have been held accountable for human rights abuses linked to their operations. These cases indicate that respecting human rights is increasingly becoming a legal obligation for businesses.
To support various stakeholders, Trk announced a new OHCHR Helpdesk on Business and Human Rights, which will provide guidance on implementing UN-backed principles. He also expressed support for ongoing negotiations toward a legally binding agreement on business and human rights.
Trk concluded with a call for stronger global cooperation to bolster human rights systems, describing the current moment as exceptionally challenging. He emphasized the need for more resources and broader backing for his office and proposed the creation of a Global Alliance for human rights to ensure that rights remain central to public life.