Opening the 14th United Nations Forum on Business and Human Rights in Geneva on Monday, he said corporate power has become increasingly influential in terms of social change.
He warned that without proper controls, new tools like generative artificial intelligence – or AI – could easily be misused.
“When powerful tech giants introduce new technologies, such as generative artificial intelligence, human rights may be the first casualty“, he said. “Generative AI is extremely promising, but its exploitation for purely political or economic purposes can manipulate, distort and distract.”
He stressed that rules, safeguards and independent oversight must keep pace with innovation.
Concerns about worker exploitation
Mr. Türk also highlighted the struggles faced by workers in many sectors. Migrant workers, women and people in informal jobs remain among the most vulnerable to abuse.
He noted that some governments are rolling back laws that require companies to respect human rights in their operationscalling the trend “worrying” and urging states to reverse course.
He said attacks on human rights defenders who document corporate abuses are unacceptable and must stop.
Climate responsibility
Addressing the climate crisis, Türk said fossil fuel companies continue to make large profits while the world’s poorest communities face increased environmental damage and displacement.
He highlighted the mixed results from COP30 in Belém, where many countries and activists expressed frustration at the slow progress on reducing emissions.
He warned that future generations could see inaction on climate change as a serious failure.
Courts and lawmakers call for tougher standards
The human rights chief noted that courts in several countries – including Brazil, the UK, the US, Thailand and Colombia – have recently found that companies can be held liable for human rights violations related to their operations, supply chains or environmental practices.
These cases show that respecting human rights is no longer optional for businesses and is increasingly supported by legal obligations.
Help Desk Initiative
To support governments, businesses and civil society, the High Commissioner announced a new OHCHR Helpdesk on Business and Human Rights, which will offer advice on implementing the new UN-backed principles.
He also reaffirmed his support for the ongoing negotiations towards a legally binding agreement on business and human rights.
The future at stake
Mr. Türk concluded by calling for stronger global cooperation at what he described as “an exceptionally difficult time” for human rights systems.
He said his office needed more resources and broader support and encouraged the creation of a Global Alliance for Human Rights to help keep rights at the center of public life.
“Human rights concern – and for – all of us,” he said. “We must ensure they guide the decisions that shape our future.”
Publicado anteriormente en Almouwatin.
