The Impact of Transnational Corporations on Human Rights: A Legal Analysis

Abstract

This paper analyzes the impact of transnational corporations (TNCs) on human rights, exploring the complex interplay between corporate activities and human rights obligations within a globalized context. As TNCs expand their operations across borders, they significantly influence local economies and communities, often leading to human rights violations such as exploitation, environmental degradation, and labor abuses. The study examines the legal frameworks governing TNCs, including international treaties and national laws, highlighting gaps in accountability and enforcement mechanisms. It emphasizes the importance of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, which outline the responsibilities of both states and corporations to protect and respect human rights. Through case studies, including the implications of gold mining in Peru, the paper illustrates the real-world consequences of corporate actions on marginalized communities. It argues for stronger legal accountability mechanisms and the need for TNCs to adopt ethical practices that prioritize human rights alongside profit. The findings call for a collaborative approach involving governments, civil society, and the private sector to enhance protections for human rights in the context of transnational corporate activities.

Keywords- Transnational corporations, human rights, legal frameworks, corporate accountability, UN Guiding Principles, globalization, ethical practices, case studies