Established in 2000, the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights are non-binding guidelines designed specifically for oil, gas, and mining companies. The Voluntary Principles provide guidance to extractives companies on maintaining the safety and security of their operations, including contracting for security services, within an operating framework that ensures respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Many of the Voluntary Principles guide the conduct of private security companies.

Voluntary Principles participants form the plenary, which serves as the main decision-making body for the Voluntary Principles Initiative. Each year, participants gather for a two-day annual plenary Meeting, and as needed extraordinary plenary meetings are held. At these meetings, participants discuss new initiatives intended to promote the future growth of the Voluntary Principles framework.

• Read the Voluntary Principles in: English | French | Spanish
• Visit the Voluntary Principles Website