Finland

3.3. Training and counselling [page 26]

Training plays a crucial role in the promotion of human rights related to business activities. As a party protecting human rights, the state also has the obligation to promote training, communications and counselling related to them. They may target companies, the authorities, and other operators. The Team Finland network (cf.                                                       next paragraph) may be used as one of the training channels. Companies may also independently acquire information and training related to human rights from various experts and consultants. However, compared to large companies, SMEs have limited resources for acquiring training related to human rights. For this reason, it is important to provide targeted training for SMEs.

As a follow-up measure, the working group proposes that

• the distribution of information on the UN principles and on the related interpretive guide published by the UN be ensure
• the need for training and information related to the impact of business on human rights and the responsibilities of Finnish companies with regards to international business activities be
• training related to the theme of business and human rights be provided to companies. The special emphasis is on SMEs operating in branches of activity that pose a high risk for human rights.
• Principal responsible parties: Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Employment and the Economy in conjunction with business sector organisations, schedule 2014 to 2016.