Above Ground works to ensure that companies based in Canada or supported by the Canadian state respect human rights wherever they operate. They shed light on the impacts of Canadian business activity abroad and advance solutions for corporate accountability in Canada. They encourage the Canadian government to fulfill its legal duty to protect against human rights abuse by the private sector and to provide access to justice for victims of such abuse.

 

What they do

Research and analysis

They produce in-depth research and analysis of the human rights impacts of Canadian companies’ overseas operations, the legal context in which they operate, and Canada’s legal duties relating to business and human rights.

 

Collaboration and convening

They work in close collaboration with other human rights advocates in Canada and internationally. They contribute subject matter expertise on legal and policy issues to several civil society coalitions, and convene key players to facilitate informed analysis and coordinated action on business and human rights.

For instance, in partnership with the International Corporate Accountability Roundtable, in 2017 they brought together nearly 150 participants from government, business, academia, the legal profession and civil society to explore international developments in corporate accountability and opportunities for Canada to become a leader in this field.

Raising awareness

Through their publications, media outreach and engagement with civil society leaders and policy makers, they build awareness and facilitate informed debate about transnational business and human rights. 

 

Advancing solutions

They develop and promote policy recommendations to advance corporate accountability in Canada. For instance, as a member of the Canadian Network on Corporate Accountability they’re helping shape policy proposals to improve access to remedy for people harmed by Canadian companies abroad. With this work, they’re building momentum towards the adoption of policy and legal frameworks that compel companies to respect human rights in their operations worldwide.