The report “Responsible Business Conduct During War in Ukraine: Context Assessment Study” analyses the complex issues of implementation of “business and human rights” approach by state and companies in Ukraine during a period of February 2022 to March 2023, marked by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. 

During times of war, businesses aren't just neutral players. This report explains how companies in Ukraine, both local and international, have reacted to the war challenges, and how well they were adapted to these challenges using “business and human rights approach” hinged on industry affiliation, company size, and their location of operations in Ukraine.

The report analyses application of heightened Human Rights Due Diligence by companies – a tool that strengthens the understanding of the context where businesses operate and, by identifying flash points, potential triggers, and/or the forces that drive the conflict, ensures that company’s activities do not contribute to human rights violations.

After a thorough analysis, the report provides recommendations for the State, companies, civil society organizations, and human rights activists to effectively implement the BHR approach during times of conflict and in the post-war period.

The report was developed as part of the B+HR Academy, supported by the Government of Japan. For more information about the B+HR Academy, visit www.undp.org/rolhr/bhr-academy.

Please note that the views expressed in this report are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views of the Government of Japan, the United Nations, including UNDP, or UN Member States.