A Standard and a Multistakeholder Initiative
A Standard and a Multistakeholder Initiative
The Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (the “Principles” or “VPSHR”) are the leading global standard on security and human rights, implemented in over 150 countries around the world. Originally drafted for oil, gas and mining companies, their application now spans energy (including renewables), mining, agriculture, critical minerals, infrastructure construction, manufacturing, chemical plants, hotels and shopping malls, and nature-based solutions such as conservation areas. The Principles are also implemented in public security agencies (army, navy and police) across many nations
Today, the Principles are the leading global framework that helps companies across industries assess conflict dynamics, identify security and human rights risks, and take proactive steps to mitigate them.
The Voluntary Principles Initiative (“VPI”) is a group of companies, governments and NGOs that work together to promote the VPSHR and develop standards of best practice. Through this multistakeholder collaboration, VPI Members have provided global leadership on security and human rights practices by developing leading tools and guidance, available on our Resources page.
The VPI is the only global platform where governments, companies, and civil society collaborate to address security and human rights issues. Its tripartite model ensures credibility, balance and real-world applicability.
On-the-Ground Multistakeholder Collaboration
The VPI supports multistakeholder working groups in many countries, collaborating on the ground to help stakeholders work together to address local challenges and improve security and human rights outcomes. These include In-Country Working Groups (link) in Brazil, Chile, Ghana and Nigeria, as well as Partner Working Groups in Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique and Peru.
Effective Project-Level Risk Management
The Voluntary Principles have become an indispensable part of responsible project management, particularly in high-risk environments such as fragile and conflict-affected states. The Principles are embedded in numerous global industry performance standards, including the ICMM Mining Principles, the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA), and the World Gold Council Responsible Gold Mining Principles.
Implementing the Principles at the project level helps strengthen stakeholder relationships and reduce negative impacts. This in turn creates a more stable and secure operating environment, which improves the investment climate and reduces project shutdowns and delays. The Principles can also help improve relations with artisanal miners operating in the project area, thereby reducing risks and improving stability. By helping to strengthen human rights and reducing community–company conflicts, the Principles can promote economic development in areas surrounding operations.
Responsible, Secure and Resilient Supply Chains
Responsible, Secure and Resilient Supply Chains
The Voluntary Principles have emerged as an essential element of secure, transparent and resilient supply chains. Many downstream buyers expect VPSHR implementation by upstream suppliers operating in high-risk areas, viewing it as part of their responsibility to uphold human rights and comply with mandatory due diligence laws. The Principles are directly embedded in numerous supply chain mechanisms and soft law instruments, such as the Responsible Jewellery Council Code of Practice and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas. The Principles are implemented not just upstream but at all stages of high-risk operations, including processing, transportation, trading and manufacturing.
The Principles are becoming increasingly important with the rising global demand for raw materials—including critical minerals essential to the energy transition, modern technologies, and defence capabilities. As countries and industries race to secure sustainable and ethical supply chains for the future economy, the Principles offers a vital framework across all high-risk activities.
How to become a member of the Initiative
Learn more about the admission criteria to each pillar and details about the process of becoming a member on our Membership page.
Membership