Business and Human Rights: Developing networks and perspectives from the Global South

The University of Derby–led Business and Human Rights project examines how Business and Human Rights (BHR) issues are understood and addressed across the Global South. Through a series of research and engagement activities, the project brings together academics, practitioners, human rights institutions and community groups to share knowledge and build new networks.

By highlighting perspectives that are often underrepresented in global debates, the project aims to strengthen understanding of BHR challenges and support more inclusive approaches to research, policy and practice.

Research focus

The project is led by Dr Eghosa Ekhator, Associate Professor of International Environmental Law at the University of Derby. His research spans international environmental law, African international legal history, and natural resources governance. His work has been cited by national and international bodies, including the UK Parliament’s International Trade Committee and the United Nations Refugee Council.

Dr Ekhator is Principal Investigator for a UKRI Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Research Networking Grant: Business and Human Rights Scholarship: Developing networks and perspectives from the Global South (1 April 2024 – 22 December 2025). The project aims to strengthen the visibility of Global South research by creating a network that supports collaboration, knowledge exchange, and long-term engagement.

Research and engagement activity

Three one-day workshops were held in 2025 across South Africa, Kenya, and the United Kingdom.

Cape Town, South Africa – 1 April 2025

Held at the Faculty of Law, University of Cape Town. The event brought together researchers, lawyers, and civil society organisations, including representatives of the South African Human Rights Commission, to discuss BHR challenges.

Nairobi, Kenya – 12 June 2025

Hosted at Riara University. Professor Patricia Kameri-Mbote, Director of the Law Division at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), delivered the keynote address. Participants included members of the Kenyan National Human Rights Commission.

Derby, United Kingdom – 4 August 2025

Held at the University of Derby. The keynote speaker was Estelle Dehon KC (Cornerstone Barristers). The event brought the network together to reflect on shared themes and identify future opportunities for collaboration.

These activities highlighted the importance of community perspectives, cross-regional dialogue, and stronger engagement between researchers, policy actors, and human rights institutions.

Research impacts

• Established a new international network of BHR scholars and practitioners.
• Created opportunities for shared learning across countries and strengthened connections between academic research and real-world human rights challenges.
• Discussions are underway regarding an edited book collection based on papers presented during the workshops.
• Work is also progressing on a project website, which will act as a permanent resource hub featuring workshop materials, project updates, and blog posts.

Researchers

• Principal Investigator - Dr Eghosa Ekhator, University of Derby
• Co-Investigator / Consultant - Dr Oyeniyi Abe (formerly University of Huddersfield)
• Institutional collaborators - Centre for Comparative Law in Africa, University of Cape Town, South Africa and Riara University, Kenya