A new survey commissioned by the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB) hows growing awareness in corporations about their role and responsibilities in the area of human rights, but clearly flags the need for a more robust framework to approach and act on the issue.

"There is growing momentum around the business and human rights agenda," said John Morrison, Executive Director of IHRB. "But the results of this survey also highlight the fact that business, civil society and government require far more clarity around expectations, concepts and approaches for addressing human rights-relevant issues."

Only a quarter of those asked had heard of the new United Nations-endorsed "Protect, Respect, Remedy" framework on business and human rights, due to be approved by the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva during the week 13-17 June 2011.

The global online survey, carried out during May 2011, was completed by a diverse range of thought leaders and practitioners, including chairmen, CEOs, heads of communications and CSR specialists from more than a dozen sectors including manufacturing, energy, mining, retail and professional services as well as academia, civil society and government.

For more information click here to read the official release, or download the full results below.

Full research results

(v. 2007 or newer)

(v. 2003 or older)