Business and human rights are often thought to be in conflict. Under this premise, corporations are sometimes viewed as treating people as mere instruments of production, whereas human rights are seen as safeguards for individual freedom, autonomy, and self-actualization. This Note will argue that corporate activity and human rights can co-exist, and even reinforce one another, particularly in the field of entrepreneurship. Teaching and encouraging socially responsible entrepreneurship can lead individuals to promote their own personal autonomy, creativity, and tolerance for risk, which are underlying principles of many human rights. Thus, supporting entrepreneur-ship has the power to support the crucial freedoms that undergird human rights law. This Note will argue that entrepreneurship aligns with and encourages key freedoms found in the “International Bill of Human Rights.” Using Zambia as a case study, this Note will examine the various human rights issues facing Zambia and corresponding entrepreneurial programs in place. This Note will demonstrate how these programs support both entrepreneurship and human rights, as well as look to Zambia’s future prospects for continued peace, freedom, and economic growth.

Continue reading Encouraging Entrepreneurship Supports Human Rights: An Evaluation of Issues and Responses in Zambia