Climate change, AI-driven industry transformations, evolving regulatory landscape and shifting consumer and investor expectations will make responsible business a legal and a competitive necessity.
Traditional business models will continue to evolve and companies won’t just ask, “What’s the profit?” but also, “What’s the impact?”.
Question 1: What are the three things people should know about you?
I’m a lawyer specialized in business and human rights. I work with human rights organizations, NGOs, policymakers, and businesses to develop and implement legal and practical frameworks that promote responsible business conduct.
My passion for justice and human rights have always been at the heart of who I am. I’m deeply committed to advocating for vulnerable communities and ensuring everyone has equal access to their rights. I truly believe that no matter how small, our actions have the power to create ripple effects towards a meaningful change.
My life motto is, “Where there is a will, there is a way.” I truly believe that persistence and determination can help us overcome any challenge. I also see myself as a lifelong learner: whether I’m exploring hidden bookstores, appreciating the beauty of nature, or strategizing my next board game move, I embrace every opportunity to grow, discover, and think in new ways.
Question 2: What fascinates you about your work?
The field of business and human rights has evolved from voluntary instruments, like the UNGPs, to legally binding human rights and environmental due diligence laws. Change is happening, and I’m excited to be part of it through my work. What motivates me most is seeing real progress in policies and laws, positive change on company practices, and working alongside a community that challenges the status quo every day and pushes the boundaries of traditional business practices.
Question 3: If there were no limitations, what would you recommend companies do to advance the rights of people in business?
Advancing human rights in business isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a strategic advantage for businesses as well. Companies that prioritize human rights and environmental responsibility build long-term resilience, gain a competitive advantage and strengthen their social license to operate.
This requires a shift from short-term profit maximization to long-term stakeholder-driven governance models, where social and environmental impact is at the heart of business strategy and considerations. My advice to companies is simple: if you haven’t started yet, start now. If you have, keep building on your efforts. Take the UNGPs as your foundation and continuously strengthen your approach.
Question 4: What is the most pressing question in your field of work right now, and how are you approaching it?
With HREDD laws becoming more prominent, the biggest challenge is ensuring they go beyond mere compliance and box-ticking exercises. The pressing question is: How can businesses integrate HREDD in a meaningful way? Here are two key considerations for ensuring effective and meaningful HREDD:
First of all, companies should be willing to build this expertise internally rather than adopting a check-the-box approach. This means refining systems, strengthening internal capacity, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Just like constructing a strong building, this process takes time and cannot be achieved overnight. Businesses that take this approach are already leading the way with innovative, risk-based strategies that go beyond compliance and create real impact.
Second, centering affected rightsholders in the design of strategies, prevention, and mitigation measures is essential. This ensures companies truly understand the real-world impact of their policies and processes. By learning directly from those affected, businesses can develop context-specific measures and redesign their due diligence efforts to drive meaningful change.
Question 5: What will the world of responsible business look like in 10 years?
Despite growing backlash and political polarization on human rights and BHR regulations, the demand for human rights and environmental due diligence will only intensify in the next years. Climate change, AI-driven industry transformations, evolving regulatory landscape and shifting consumer and investor expectations will make responsible business a legal and a competitive necessity. Traditional business models will continue to evolve and companies won’t just ask, “What’s the profit?” but also, “What’s the impact?”. Businesses who take proactive steps to address their human rights and environmental impacts early will be best positioned to address growing expectations.
Get in touch with Fatmanur Caygın via Linkedin or via email: fatmanurcaygin@gmail.com
