Human Rights Issue Matrix for the ICT Sector
This 2016 paper released by GeSI reviews key considerations and practices involved in protecting human rights when providing security for telecommunication base stations, or base transceiver stations (‘BTS’). The Issue Paper drew from emerging expectations at the time, for responsible security practices and survey results conducted with four GeSI members across multiple markets.
GeSI commissioned a Human Rights Issues Matrix that provides a comprehensive overview of the ICT industry’s potential human rights impacts, both positive and adverse. Organized by sector (service provider, manufacturer, and supply chain) and affected groups, it highlights particularly vulnerable sub-groups that may experience distinct impacts. Two separate matrices were created: one for developing countries and one for developed countries, addressing the unique contexts and challenges in each.
Developed at the request of GeSI members, the matrix serves as a tool to help companies understand and prioritize their human rights responsibilities. It includes existing best practices and industry initiatives, which are color-coded to indicate current action and opportunities for knowledge-sharing. Some areas remain unaddressed, presenting potential focus areas for GeSI to support members in identifying and implementing best practices.
Two annexes accompany the matrix: one listing current industry initiatives and company best practices, and the other linking identified issues to specific human rights as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
For Members:
- You can access the full version below.
Become a member and get access to all special member content with the best insights of tech and sustainability issues today.