The expectations by multiple stakeholders about businesses operating in other countries are increasing, particularly if they operate in the most impoverished countries where protection measures against business abuses are many times lacking. This is an increasing concern that, no doubt, many times is linked to the increased demand for more control of the impacts of the business operations overseas, like in the case of the supply chains.
With practices that protect and respect human rights, business enterprises can contribute to the development of the territories where they operate, create workforce, invest in technology and promote local markets, while the business grows. No doubt, businesses are an important engine for change and they can generate a positive development in the communities where they are located.
Nowadays, the efforts made by public administrations through policies and programmes to promote the internationalization of businesses are very important. But, how do we want businesses to internationalize? Public administrations must ensure that all interventions respect human rights, wherever business enterprises operate.
This way, a responsible internationalization that guarantees the respect of human rights will enable the establishment of prosperous more sustainable businesses, improve the living of people and strengthen the reputation of Socially Responsible Brands and Territories.