Following the collaboration with UNICEF initiated in 2010 for improving the impact of private sector on children’s rights in Mali, CAD moderated on November 19, 2012 the official launch of the Children’s Rights and Business Principles in Mali.

The Principles, which were developed by UNICEF, Save the Children and the Global Compact, are the result of a consultation in which participated more than 600 companies, civil society organizations and children globally. Covering a wide range of key issues – from the worst forms of child labor practices in marketing or advertising, or the role of companies in providing assistance to children affected by emergencies-, the Principles call on companies around the world to defend children’s rights in their business policies.

The Principles contain a range of measures created so that companies can prevent and manage negative impacts associated with their activities and relationships, while maximizing their positive impacts on the lives of children.

In Mali, the launch was characterized by a strong business involvement and the participation of a number of important stakeholders including ministers, the director of the Malian business leaders association or the UN Resident Coordinator. The launch allowed also validating the idea of the creation of a manual to support companies in the practical application of those principles in Mali. This manual is currently under cumpletion.

To learn more about the ten principles: www.unglobalcompact.org