The initiative to develop the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPSHR ) was taken by the US and the UK governments in 2000, with the Netherlands and Norway joining later.
Together with companies in the extractive and energy sectors, and non-governmental organisations, all with an interest in human rights, they established a dialogue on security and human rights.
The participants recognize the importance of the promotion and protection of human rights throughout the world and the constructive role business and civil society – including non-governmental organisations, labour/trade unions, and local communities – can play in advancing these goals.
Through this dialogue, the participants have developed a set of voluntary principles to guide extractive industry and energy companies in maintaining the safety and security of their operations within an operating framework that ensures respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Mindful of these goals, the participants agree to the importance of continuing this dialogue and keeping under review these principles to ensure their continuing relevance and efficacy. Companies commit themselves to follow the principles and make implementation plans and report on progress.
StatoilHydro is a member-participant in the VPSHR , and we work to ensure that our use of security guards and operations is in line with the voluntary principles.
http://www.statoil.com/AnnualReport2008/en/Sustainability/ResponsibleOperations/Pages/VPSHR.aspx