A business case for human rights? Human rights defenders and the private sector in an era of conflict

Apr 22, 2026 | Oxfam
1101 17th St. NW #1300 Washington, DC
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Against a rising trend of commercial diplomacy and a global scramble for energy and minerals, the private sector is in the driving seat of American foreign policy like never before. At the same time, democracy is in retreat at home and abroad, foreign assistance is declining, and rights are under attack everywhere. Human rights defenders who challenge mining and other extractive interests remain uniquely vulnerable to reprisals for their activism.

As the power of the private sector expands alongside conflicts for land and natural resources, is there a business case for human rights? Hear perspectives from leading environmental defenders on the incentives, limits, and future of the business and human rights agenda.

Featuring:

• Diana Nabiruma - Africa Institute for Energy Governance, Uganda
• Eric Ngang Afrewatch - Democratic Republic of the Congo
• María Camila Barrera - Gutierrez Center for Research and Community Education, Colombia
• Moderator: Maria Lya Ramos Oxfam - United States