Session “Rethinking Engagement in Our Times: A Paradigm Shift and Practical Guidance for How Businesses Engage with Affected Communities” – BHR Europe

In an era of intersecting crises – conflict, climate change, inequality, and weakening trust – meaningful engagement with communities affected by business operations is more critical than ever. Yet many companies still approach engagement as a formality or a risk management exercise, rather than a genuine, trust -based relationship.

This side event will explore why and how a paradigm shift in company –community engagement is needed , particularly in today’s global polycrisis that is reshaping business responsibilities. It will present practical insights , tools and innovative field initiatives featuring experiences from communities, Indigenous Peoples, companies and experts.

Key questions to be addressed include:

• How can companies identify affected communities and legitimate representatives?

• How can they engage meaningfully to prevent, mitigate, and remedy negative impacts?

• How can engagement foster positive impacts aligned with community aspirations?

By emphasizing relationship -centered, rights -based engagement , this session will contribute to the Forum’s goal of accelerating business and human rights action in the challenges of our times , placing rightsholders and affected communities at the core of due diligence and decision -making processes.

Expected outcomes :

• Raise awareness on the need for a shift from transactional to relationship -based engagement with affected communities.

• Share practical tools and approaches to strengthen company practices, accountability and respect for human rights.