In its discussion paper Should I stay or should I go?, SOMO explores the role of disengagement in due diligence processes aimed at preventing, mitigating, and remedying adverse human rights impacts.
‘Disengagement’ refers to the decision-making process ultimately leading up to the act of terminating a business relationship. The two most relevant international normative standards related to responsible business conduct – the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises – provide that companies should responsibly disengage from their operations, suppliers, and business relationships. Companies should conduct human rights due diligence to avoid irresponsibly disengaging from their operations or business relationships.