Webinar Recap: Human Rights in Sustainable Procurement

Human rights have long been a fundamental consideration in responsible procurement, but organizations continue to face challenges translating commitments into consistent purchasing decisions. Last week’s SPLC webinar "Human Rights in Sustainable Procurement: Turning Commitments into Purchasing Decisions" explored practical approaches for embedding human rights into procurement processes, engaging suppliers, and conducting meaningful due diligence.

Why Human Rights in Procurement Matters Now

While human rights considerations aren't new, the pressure to operationalize them has intensified dramatically. With shifting regulatory landscapes to heightened public, student, and investor scrutiny, it’s imperative that human rights don’t take a backseat to other supply chain complexities. Panelists explored how human rights extend far beyond distant manufacturing floors to impact local operations, campus environments, and domestic service providers.

From Commitment to Action: Where Organizations Struggle

The panel highlighted several systemic barriers organizations run into—particularly within decentralized environments like higher education and complex enterprise networks. Attendees learned how centralizing approval processes, engaging buyers earlier in sourcing cycles, and setting clear expectations up front can bridge the divide between corporate values and tactical buying.

What Effective Human Rights Procurement Looks Like

While starting with the basics like a Supplier Code of Conduct is important, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Organizations must establish direct access, continuous verification, and robust accountability systems. Risk assessment must be prioritized early in the sourcing process. Looking only at upfront price risks severe long-term costs—including service disruptions, brand damage, and stakeholder backlash.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, the landscape of human rights in procurement is rapidly shifting as new legislation and strict reporting requirements force organizations to prioritize necessary documentation and demand greater supply chain transparency. Human rights are becoming deeply integrated into core decision-making and broader sustainability strategies. Procurement teams are being engaged much earlier as staff and students ask tougher questions about purchasing habits. Ultimately, because brand reputation rests on the fact that people care about people, embedding human rights is no longer just a compliance measure—it is a clear competitive advantage that benefits the entire business.

The SPLC webinar "Human Rights in Sustainable Procurement: Turning Commitments into Purchasing Decisions" was held on September 10, 2026. The recording is available to all SPLC members.

Panelists:
Andrew Baer, Head of Responsible Procurement, S&P Global
Stefan Henricson, Sustainable Procurement Manager, Essity
Clare Hobby, Director, External Engagement, Global, TCO Development
Madeline Sherman, Supply Chain Program Manager, Arizona State University

This article was enhanced by Google Gemini