Accessing learning in due diligence and grievance mechanisms

Go to section

Need for increased alignment in due diligence processes
The context
Supporting the development of due diligence systems

Introduction

Project details

Title: Good practice & learning in Due Diligence & Grievance Mechanisms

Project lead: Bonsucro

Project partners: Responsible Jewellery Council

Duration: October 2021 – June 2022

Contact: Laura Fisher - laura@bonsucro.org

Co-funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO, through the ISEAL Innovations Fund

Need for increased alignment in due diligence processes

As more national laws and regulations move to requiring Human Rights Due Diligence processes, the need for clear guidance and experience in what establishing these systems entails becomes more and more important. Sustainability systems like Bonsucro and RJC have a responsibility to align their practice with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP), and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, with transparency in their due diligence process.

The context

With the release of a new Code of Conduct and new Grievance Mechanism in 2020, Bonsucro has further strengthened its due diligence requirements for members. The RJC is a member of the OECD Multi-stakeholder group (MSG), and has developed a specific Due Diligence toolkit for both members and auditors against the OECD's Due Diligence Guidance. Through working to bolster their respective systems, they have identified a gap in guidance specifically to sustainability systems like themselves, and the Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS) community more broadly.

Supporting the development of due diligence systems

This project aims to support the introduction and strengthening of due diligence systems and grievance mechanisms, specifically taking into account the complexities of VSS. Bonsucro and RJC will create the opportunity for VSS to exchange experiences and learnings, and identify and develop key takeaways and practical recommendations in alignment with UNGP and OECD guidelines. The project aims to contribute to strengthening the implementation of these guidelines amongst the ISEAL community encouraging commitment to a robust Human Rights Due Diligence process, and to contribute to increasing the effectiveness of VSS' own grievance mechanisms.