Responsibility for violations of human rights by transnational corporations

Abstract

This thesis analyses several possible subjects of responsibility for human rights violations committed by transnational corporations. This thesis analyses possibility of State responsibility, examining prospects of both types of States: ones in which headquarters of transnational corporations are seated, and ones where subsidiaries conduct their business. Having found that it is not feasible to hold States accountable, ethical approach is taken. The overview of initiatives for holdings transnational corporations directly accountable shows their major setback – voluntary nature. Then finally national tools are examined in the United States and the European Union. After examination it was found the model in United States is the most favourable solution for both holding transnational corporations directly accountable for human rights violations and for victims of abuses. The model in the European Union lacks lower jurisdictional requirements and more favourable choice of law regulation.