National Action Plan
In the National Action Plan for Business and Human Rights (NAP), the Federal Government sets out, for the first time, the responsibility of German companies along supply and value chains. The Action Plan aims to help strengthen human rights and shape globalisation in a socially responsible manner.
The NAP serves to implement the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights adopted in 2011. It details what the Federal Government expects, both from state institutions and companies, with regard to the protection of human rights in supply and value chains. The Action Plan was compiled in a consultation process involving numerous stakeholders from business, policymaking and civil society.
On the pages that follow, you will find further information about the NAP, the Federal Government’s commitment, and the concept of corporate human rights due diligence. You will also learn about the remedies and redress available to those affected by human rights violations.
Information on the NAP
About the NAP
With the National Action Plan for Business and Human Rights (NAP), the Federal Government has implemented the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights adopted in 2011. What does the Action Plan contain, and what are its background and objectives? What obligations does it create for government and businesses?
Commitment of the Federal Government
The National Action Plan for Business and Human Rights (NAP) describes the state’s duty to protect human rights. This includes both the government’s duty to protect human rights in its own activities and its duty to support companies as they implement their due diligence obligations. What does that mean in detail?
Corporate due diligence
Companies have a responsibility to respect human rights. What exactly does the Federal Government expect from businesses in this regard? What support is available?
Access to remedy and remediation
When business enterprises violate human rights, the countries on whose territory and/or under whose jurisdiction the violations take place are required to provide accessible remedies and effective redress. What types of grievance mechanisms are available? Which institutions can injured parties turn to?
National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights
Using the three pillars of the UN Guiding Principles, the National Action Plan outlines the Federal Government's obligations under international law to protect human rights and describes the obligation enterprises have to practise human rights due diligence by reason of their corporate responsibility.