AIM-Progress is aware that its members and their suppliers operating in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and neighbouring countries are experiencing growing challenges because of the ongoing conflict.
The conflict requires companies to respond to protect their employees, their suppliers, the communities they operate in and to support those displaced and in need. AIM-Progress is working with its members to ensure they follow international humanitarian and criminal law and the guidance of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) as well as following responsible sourcing practices throughout their supply chains.
Our members with operations and supply chains in the Ukraine have closed operations where necessary and are prioritising the safety and security of workers, families and communities, continuing to pay wages, providing financial and logistical support and putting evacuation and communication plans in place. They are working alongside non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and trade unions to support workers and communities as well as providing humanitarian support through international organisations.
Our members are also needing to take decisions about operations and supply chains in Russia and surrounding countries. We will support them in identifying, preventing and mitigating the human rights risks related to their activities and business relationships in the region and encourage them wherever possible to take into consideration impacts on workers and local populations in their business decisions.
The implications of the conflict are now spreading outside of the region and we will be working with our members to understand the implications for the diaspora in their operations and supply chains across the globe and to manage the increased risks of labour exploitation as millions of refugees look for safety and security in the countries they are travelling to.
AIM-Progress and its members fully support the unity and efforts of all working towards ending this war, and hope that peace, human rights, and the international rule of law will prevail.
AIM-Progress team