Understanding the Human Rights-Based Approach in DEI
Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA) is a framework for ensuring fairness, equality, and dignity in policies, practices, and institutions. Within Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), HRBA serves as a powerful tool to address systemic inequalities and protect marginalised communities.
Definition:
Human Rights-Based Approach is a strategy that integrates human rights principles into organisational policies, laws, and social initiatives. It ensures that individuals and groups have equal access to opportunities, protections, and resources, regardless of race, gender, disability, or socioeconomic status. HRBA emphasises participation, accountability, non-discrimination, empowerment, and legality in all aspects of social and organisational frameworks.
Example:
Consider a global company implementing HRBA to promote gender equality. They conduct an audit of pay structures and identify a wage gap between male and female employees. Through HRBA principles, they develop policies to eliminate disparities, establish mentorship programs for women, and ensure female representation in leadership roles. By doing so, the company not only complies with human rights standards but also fosters a more inclusive workplace.
Why Human Rights-Based Approach Matters
Human Rights-Based Approach ensures that DEI is rooted in justice rather than tokenism. It shifts the focus from passive inclusion to active empowerment, ensuring marginalised voices are heard and respected. Whether in education, employment, healthcare, or policymaking, HRBA serves as a foundation for sustainable social change.
Conclusion:
Human Rights-Based Approach is essential for creating equitable, inclusive, and just societies. By embedding human rights principles into DEI initiatives, organisations and institutions can foster long-term change that benefits all. Embracing HRBA is not just a moral imperative—it’s a strategic necessity for building a fairer world.
References:
Schmitz, H. P. (2012). A human rights-based approach (HRBA) in practice: Evaluating NGO development efforts. Polity, 44(4), 523-541. https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/abs/10.1057/pol.2012.18
London, L. (2008). What is a human-rights based approach to health and does it matter?. Health and human rights, 65-80. https://www.jstor.org/stable/20460088
Gauri, V., & Gloppen, S. (2012). Human rights-based approaches to development: Concepts, evidence, and policy. Polity, 44(4), 485-503. https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/abs/10.1057/pol.2012.12
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