Swedwatch´s activities and results – 2021 highlights

This year, Swedwatch´s annual progress report has been accompanied by a shorter popular version, showcasing key activities and insights into how our work has contributed to the empowerment of rights holders and to promote responsible business conduct. 

Looking back at 2021, the Covid-19 pandemic continued to hold the world in a tight grip. Many states seized the opportunity to further shrink civic space and to roll back environmental commitments. Millions of workers lost their jobs, and numerous reports testified of already poor working conditions deteriorating across global supply chains. For Swedwatch, highlighting the responsibility of companies to act in alignment with recognized frameworks on business and human rights became even more important – and to amplify the voices of affected workers, rights holders and communities.

But 2021 also saw some positive developments. After years of calls from global civil society, Swedwatch in September celebrated the UN recognition of the right to a healthy environment, acknowledging the damage inflicted by climate change and environmental destruction on human rights. Looking into the future, Swedwatch aims to contribute to ensure that the resolution becomes a catalyst for change, including in the business community.

More on how Swedwatch worked to increase the responsibility of business in respecting human rights and the environment is found in this annual highlight, as well as some snapshots of future engagements.

Alice Blondel, Director, Swedwatch

More on how Swedwatch worked to increase the responsibility of business in respecting human rights and the environment is found in this annual highlight.