Human Rights Law

The safeguarding of human rights has seen significant development in recent years, with heightened requirements and expectations. Our team of experts is equipped to handle a broad spectrum of human rights issues. This ranges from navigating the increasingly stringent requirements for businesses under the Transparency Act and similar regulations to conducting traditional legal assessments and resolving disputes related to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and other international conventions.

Not only do we possess a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework but also deep insights into industry practices and the expectations of regulatory authorities.

The Wiersholm team is very knowledgeable, has great expertise, is very available, service-minded and hands-on, and offers very constructive and trustworthy advice. The services provided are always spot-on and helpful.
Legal 500

Protecting human rights is a critical issue of our time, gaining prominence on the agendas of international bodies, the EU, Norwegian legislators, investors, businesses, and other stakeholders. Corporate responsibility has rapidly transitioned from “soft law” to “hard law,” with ever-increasing demands and expectations. The requirements for due diligence and proactive measures within companies’ operations and supply chains, as outlined in the Norwegian Transparency Act and the forthcoming EU directive (CSDDD), are central to this shift. Our human rights team supports both private and public entities in their human rights endeavors, drawing on extensive domistic and international experience. Our advice is consistently risk-based, practical, and solution-oriented.

We have substantial experience in legal assessments, dispute resolution, and investigations related to human rights under the ECHR, UN conventions, and the Norwegian Constitution, covering issues such as freedom of religion, property rights, indigenous rights, and the rights of the child. Our team has litigated numerous human rights cases before the Norwegian Supreme Court and has produced several reports for ministries and other stakeholders in recent years. We collaborate closely with our media law team on cases involving freedom of the press and expression and with our data protection team on matters concerning data protection and privacy.

Our Services

Advice relating to the Norwegian Transparency Act, including due diligence, responses to information requests, and reporting

Guidance on other regulations such as CSDDD, UNGP, OECD guidelines, procurement rules, contractual requirements, and foreign legislation like the UK Modern Slavery Act

Risk mapping and assessments of business operations, supply chains, or specific suppliers and partners (Integrity Due Diligence), utilising local advisors across various jurisdictions

Development of internal procedures, guidelines, supplier requirements, codes of conduct, questionnaires, and contract regulations

Due diligence and advice in connection with transactions, investments, or establishments in high-risk jurisdictions or industries

Advice relating to and investigations into human rights violations or similar issues within businesses or with business associates

Assistance with investigations, inquiries, orders, or prohibitions from prosecuting or supervisory authorities

Human rights assessments and investigations related to the ECHR, UN conventions, the Norwegian Constitution, and other human rights regulations

Assistance in connection with disputes related to human rights violations or issues, including ECHR claims, liability, procurement, and corporate penalties

Advice relating to human rights and sustainability reporting, including CSRD requirements

Advice relating to marketing legislation claims concerning “social washing” or “greenwashing”