Energy companies and state organizations strengthen human rights capacities in Casanare

Colombia’s Office of the Presidential Advisor for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, the Ombudsman’s Office, and the Guías Colombia initiative held a workshop on ‘Human Rights and Companies: Territorial commitment for responsible development’ in Yopal, Casanare. Led by Frontera Energy and with the support of GeoPark, Parex, and Ecopetrol Group companies Hocol and Ocensa, the event aimed to foster respect for human rights in Casanare and promote responsible territorial development.

At the event, public sector representatives such as mayors, government secretaries and municipal representatives, alongside civil society representatives and energy industry professionals, enhanced their knowledge of promoting and protecting human rights within the business context.

The event addressed key issues such as the role of companies in preventing human rights risks, the strengthening of institutions and the importance of dialogue between the public and private sectors to guarantee sustainable and inclusive development.

Guías Colombia, a multi-stakeholder initiative, highlighted the importance of creating learning and cooperation opportunities that strengthen respect for human rights in the business context. “This kind of meeting shows the importance of working in partnership between the State, companies and civil society to consolidate good practices and create trust in the territories,” said Maria Fernanda Vargas, Coordinator of Guías Colombia’s Responsible Business Conduct area and a member of its Technical Secretariat.

Through initiatives such as this workshop, Frontera Energy, GeoPark, Parex, and Ecopetrol Group companies Hocol and Ocensa underscore their commitment to responsibly managing human rights and developing the territories where they operate.