The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has introduced awards to be presented to businesses that protect human rights. The Human Rights Business Awards were introduced at the ceremony to mark Human Rights Day and the 18th anniversary of HRCM.
Speaking at the ceremony, President of HRCM Mariyam Muna said businesses should conduct their work with respect to human rights. She also noted the commission has found that some businesses are violating the rights of their employees as well as damaging the environment.
The commission has decided to conduct a human rights certification of the business programme to certify and award businesses that are exceptional in respecting and protecting human rights.
The programme also aims to increase the participation of businesses in the commission's work to build a society that understands and protect human rights. As part of the programme, HRCM will be reviewing the anti-harassment policies of businesses as well as interviewing its employees and customers.
The commission stated it will certify businesses in three categories in accordance with the points earned during the review process.
The categories are split into human rights certified gold, silver, and bronze. HRCM stated businesses will be de-certified if a court finds them guilty of a human rights violation.