Harvard Case - Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)
"Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)" Harvard business case study is written by Rebecca M. Henderson, Nien-he Hsieh. It deals with the challenges in the field of General Management. The case study is 31 page(s) long and it was first published on : Mar 19, 2015
At Fern Fort University, we recommend that Barrick Gold Corporation (Barrick) implement a comprehensive and proactive approach to embedding human rights principles within its corporate strategy and operations. This involves a multi-faceted strategy that includes strengthening its existing human rights framework, enhancing stakeholder engagement, promoting transparency and accountability, and fostering a culture of respect for human rights throughout the organization.
2. Background
This case study focuses on Barrick Gold Corporation, a leading global gold mining company facing challenges in upholding human rights standards across its diverse operations. The case highlights the company's efforts to integrate human rights into its business practices, including the development of a comprehensive human rights policy and the establishment of a dedicated Human Rights Department. However, the case also reveals that Barrick continues to face criticism and scrutiny regarding its human rights performance, particularly in relation to land acquisition, community engagement, and the potential for human rights abuses in its mining operations.
The main protagonists in this case are:
- Barrick Gold Corporation: A multinational mining company seeking to balance its business objectives with its commitment to human rights.
- Human Rights Activists and NGOs: Organizations advocating for the protection of human rights and holding Barrick accountable for its actions.
- Local Communities: Residents impacted by Barrick's mining operations, who may face displacement, environmental degradation, and other challenges.
- Barrick's Management: Executives and employees responsible for implementing the company's human rights strategy and ensuring compliance.
3. Analysis of the Case Study
This case study can be analyzed through the lens of various frameworks, including:
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Framework: This framework emphasizes the responsibility of corporations to operate ethically and sustainably, considering the impact of their actions on stakeholders. Barrick's efforts to develop a human rights policy and engage with stakeholders demonstrate a commitment to CSR.
- Stakeholder Theory: This theory emphasizes the importance of considering the interests of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, communities, and the environment. Barrick's challenges stem from the conflicting interests of these stakeholders, particularly in regions where mining operations have a significant impact on local communities.
- Strategic Management Framework: This framework provides a structured approach to analyzing the external and internal environment of an organization, setting strategic goals, and developing action plans. Barrick needs to integrate human rights considerations into its strategic planning process to ensure that its business objectives are aligned with its human rights commitments.
4. Recommendations
To address the challenges outlined in the case, Barrick should implement the following recommendations:
1. Strengthen Human Rights Framework:
- Refine and Enhance Human Rights Policy: Conduct a thorough review of the existing policy, ensuring it aligns with international human rights standards, addresses specific risks associated with mining operations, and provides clear guidance for employees.
- Develop Comprehensive Human Rights Due Diligence Process: Implement a robust due diligence process to identify, assess, and mitigate potential human rights risks in all stages of the mining lifecycle, from exploration to closure.
- Establish Independent Human Rights Advisory Board: Create an independent advisory board composed of experts in human rights, international law, and mining to provide oversight and guidance on Barrick's human rights performance.
2. Enhance Stakeholder Engagement:
- Promote Transparency and Accountability: Publish regular reports on human rights performance, including details of any incidents, complaints, and remedial actions taken.
- Strengthen Community Engagement: Implement participatory approaches to engage with local communities, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns addressed throughout the mining project lifecycle.
- Establish Grievance Mechanisms: Create accessible and effective grievance mechanisms for communities and employees to raise concerns and seek redress for human rights violations.
3. Foster a Culture of Respect for Human Rights:
- Integrate Human Rights Training: Provide comprehensive human rights training for all employees, including managers, to enhance awareness, knowledge, and skills in upholding human rights principles.
- Develop Ethical Leadership Programs: Promote ethical leadership by providing training and support to managers on ethical decision-making, conflict resolution, and cultural sensitivity.
- Incentivize Human Rights Performance: Incorporate human rights performance into employee performance evaluations and reward systems, recognizing and rewarding employees who uphold human rights standards.
4. Leverage Technology and Analytics:
- Utilize Technology for Monitoring and Reporting: Employ technology solutions to monitor human rights risks, track grievances, and report on human rights performance.
- Develop Data-Driven Decision Making: Use data analytics to identify patterns, trends, and potential risks related to human rights, enabling proactive interventions and informed decision-making.
5. Basis of Recommendations
These recommendations are based on the following considerations:
- Core Competencies and Consistency with Mission: The recommendations align with Barrick's stated commitment to responsible mining practices and its desire to be a leader in the industry.
- External Customers and Internal Clients: The recommendations address the concerns of external stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and investors, while also fostering a positive work environment for employees.
- Competitors: By implementing these recommendations, Barrick can differentiate itself from competitors by demonstrating a strong commitment to human rights, attracting investors and customers who value ethical business practices.
- Attractiveness: The recommendations are expected to enhance Barrick's reputation, reduce risks, and improve its long-term sustainability, ultimately contributing to increased profitability and shareholder value.
6. Conclusion
By implementing these recommendations, Barrick Gold Corporation can demonstrate a genuine commitment to human rights, improve its reputation, enhance stakeholder relationships, and mitigate risks associated with its operations. This proactive approach will enable Barrick to achieve its business objectives while upholding ethical standards and contributing to a more sustainable future.
7. Discussion
Alternatives not selected:
- Maintaining the status quo: This option would likely lead to continued criticism and reputational damage, potentially impacting Barrick's business operations and long-term sustainability.
- Focusing solely on legal compliance: While important, this approach would not address the broader concerns of stakeholders regarding human rights impacts and would not be sufficient to foster a culture of respect for human rights within the organization.
Risks and key assumptions:
- Resistance to change: Some employees and managers may resist the implementation of new policies and procedures, particularly those related to human rights.
- Cost of implementation: Implementing these recommendations may require significant investment in training, technology, and resources.
- Effectiveness of implementation: The success of these recommendations depends on effective implementation and ongoing monitoring.
8. Next Steps
Timeline with key milestones:
- Year 1: Develop and implement a comprehensive human rights policy, establish an independent advisory board, and conduct human rights training for all employees.
- Year 2: Implement a robust human rights due diligence process, strengthen community engagement initiatives, and establish grievance mechanisms.
- Year 3: Leverage technology for monitoring and reporting, develop data-driven decision-making processes, and incorporate human rights performance into employee evaluations and reward systems.
By taking these steps, Barrick can effectively integrate human rights into its core business practices, becoming a leader in responsible mining and setting a positive example for the industry.
Hire an expert to write custom solution for HBR General Management case study - Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)
- Barrick Gold Corporation Perfect Storm Pascua Lama Case Study Solution
- American Barrick Resources Corp Managing Gold Price Risk Case Study Solution
- Nikes Response Human Rights Abuse Claims China Case Study Solution
- Golden Rule Case Study Solution
- Goldfinger Charles W Engelhard Jr Apartheidera South Africa Case Study Solution
- Inland Steel Industries Case Study Solution
- Digging Gold Paulson Cos Activism Gold Sector Case Study Solution
- Full Surprises Dietary Supplements Gym Tale Corporate Social Responsibility Case Study Solution
- Conflict Minerals Influencing Supply Chain Public Purpose Case Study Solution
- Top Resources Case Study Solution
- Innocent Drinks Maintaining Socially Responsible Values Growth Case Study Solution
- Crisis Management Signal Detection Organizational Destruction Manager Whitewashes Buries Demolishes Evidence Case Study Solution
Case Description
In 2010, Human Rights Watch, a well-regarded international NGO, approached Barrick Gold asserting that members of the company's security force at the Porgera Gold Mine in Papua New Guinea had on multiple occasions raped women who were trespassing onto the mine's waste dumps in search of gold. Subsequent investigations identified significant evidence to support the allegations, and the revelations led to broad ranging change at both Porgera and at Barrick more generally. Drawing heavily on the United Nation's Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (GPs), Barrick not only moved to make efforts to provide restitution to the women involved, but also designed and rolled out a comprehensive set of policies designed to embed the protection of human rights into the entire company. Barrick also played a central role in leading the development of an auditing and verification framework for the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (the VPs), a set of commitments embraced by most of the world's largest extractive companies. The case provides students with an opportunity to analyze the challenges that arise from operating in environments with weak state institutions; to examine the challenges of implementing voluntary frameworks, such as the GPs or VPs, and their potential as alternatives to state institutions; to learn about the field of business and human rights; and to develop an analytic framework for evaluating the responsibilities of business leaders to society, especially from the perspective of human rights.
🎓 Struggling with term papers, essays, or Harvard case studies? Look no further! Fern Fort University offers top-quality, custom-written solutions tailored to your needs. Boost your grades and save time with expertly crafted content. Order now and experience academic excellence! 🌟📚 #MBA #HarvardCaseStudies #CustomEssays #AcademicSuccess #StudySmart Write my custom case study solution for Harvard HBR case - Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)
Hire an expert to write custom solution for HBR General Management case study - Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)
Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A) FAQ
What are the qualifications of the writers handling the "Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)" case study?
Our writers hold advanced degrees in their respective fields, including MBAs and PhDs from top universities. They have extensive experience in writing and analyzing complex case studies such as " Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A) ", ensuring high-quality, academically rigorous solutions.
How do you ensure confidentiality and security in handling client information?
We prioritize confidentiality by using secure data encryption, access controls, and strict privacy policies. Apart from an email, we don't collect any information from the client. So there is almost zero risk of breach at our end. Our financial transactions are done by Paypal on their website so all your information is very secure.
What is Fern Fort Univeristy's process for quality control and proofreading in case study solutions?
The Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A) case study solution undergoes a rigorous quality control process, including multiple rounds of proofreading and editing by experts. We ensure that the content is accurate, well-structured, and free from errors before delivery.
Where can I find free case studies solution for Harvard HBR Strategy Case Studies?
At Fern Fort University provides free case studies solutions for a variety of Harvard HBR case studies. The free solutions are written to build "Wikipedia of case studies on internet". Custom solution services are written based on specific requirements. If free solution helps you with your task then feel free to donate a cup of coffee.
I’m looking for Harvard Business Case Studies Solution for Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A). Where can I get it?
You can find the case study solution of the HBR case study "Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)" at Fern Fort University.
Can I Buy Case Study Solution for Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A) & Seek Case Study Help at Fern Fort University?
Yes, you can order your custom case study solution for the Harvard business case - "Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)" at Fern Fort University. You can get a comprehensive solution tailored to your requirements.
Can I hire someone only to analyze my Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A) solution? I have written it, and I want an expert to go through it.
🎓 Struggling with term papers, essays, or Harvard case studies? Look no further! Fern Fort University offers top-quality, custom-written solutions tailored to your needs. Boost your grades and save time with expertly crafted content. Order now and experience academic excellence! 🌟📚 #MBA #HarvardCaseStudies #CustomEssays #AcademicSuccess #StudySmart Pay an expert to write my HBR study solution for the case study - Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)
Where can I find a case analysis for Harvard Business School or HBR Cases?
You can find the case study solution of the HBR case study "Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)" at Fern Fort University.
Which are some of the all-time best Harvard Review Case Studies?
Some of our all time favorite case studies are -
Can I Pay Someone To Solve My Case Study - "Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)"?
Yes, you can pay experts at Fern Fort University to write a custom case study solution that meets all your professional and academic needs.
Do I have to upload case material for the case study Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A) to buy a custom case study solution?
We recommend to upload your case study because Harvard HBR case studies are updated regularly. So for custom solutions it helps to refer to the same document. The uploading of specific case materials for Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A) ensures that the custom solution is aligned precisely with your needs. This helps our experts to deliver the most accurate, latest, and relevant solution.
What is a Case Research Method? How can it be applied to the Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A) case study?
The Case Research Method involves in-depth analysis of a situation, identifying key issues, and proposing strategic solutions. For "Putting the Guiding Principles into Action: Human Rights at Barrick Gold (A)" case study, this method would be applied by examining the case’s context, challenges, and opportunities to provide a robust solution that aligns with academic rigor.
"I’m Seeking Help with Case Studies,” How can Fern Fort University help me with my case study assignments?
Fern Fort University offers comprehensive case study solutions, including writing, analysis, and consulting services. Whether you need help with strategy formulation, problem-solving, or academic compliance, their experts are equipped to assist with your assignments.
Achieve academic excellence with Fern Fort University! 🌟 We offer custom essays, term papers, and Harvard HBR business case studies solutions crafted by top-tier experts. Experience tailored solutions, uncompromised quality, and timely delivery. Elevate your academic performance with our trusted and confidential services. Visit Fern Fort University today! #AcademicSuccess #CustomEssays #MBA #CaseStudies
How do you handle tight deadlines for case study solutions?
We are adept at managing tight deadlines by allocating sufficient resources and prioritizing urgent projects. Our team works efficiently without compromising quality, ensuring that even last-minute requests are delivered on time
What if I need revisions or edits after receiving the case study solution?
We offer free revisions to ensure complete client satisfaction. If any adjustments are needed, our team will work closely with you to refine the solution until it meets your expectations.
How do you ensure that the case study solution is plagiarism-free?
All our case study solutions are crafted from scratch and thoroughly checked using advanced plagiarism detection software. We guarantee 100% originality in every solution delivered
How do you handle references and citations in the case study solutions?
We follow strict academic standards for references and citations, ensuring that all sources are properly credited according to the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).