Cobalt Learning Group Session on Voluntary Principles Convened by Cobalt Institute

On November 7, Cobalt Institute convened a virtual Cobalt Learning Group (CLG) session for our members focused on the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPSHR) and its application in current operating environments. Cobalt Institute is an official Observer of the Voluntary Principles Initiative (VPI).

The session was moderated by Jon Drimmer of Steptoe and Strategic Advisor to the VPI and advisor to the CLG.

Mora Johnson of the VPI Secretariat set the scene by providing an overview of the Voluntary Principles and the Initiative, including the In-Country Working Groups, VPI resources, and the development of a new guidance on security and human rights due diligence. Interviews with the European Commission and downstream supply chain standard setters have demonstrated that the Voluntary Principles are even more important in an era of mandatory human rights due diligence.

Brian Gonsalves of AngloGold Ashanti provided an insightful look into how the Voluntary Principles work in practice, including in complex environments, particularly given the increasing challenges and dangers for security providers posed by criminal groups. Brian explained how VPSHR integration into company’s procedures and policies can be deeply impactful on the ground, particularly when driven by a company’s values.

Mike Jobbins of Search for Common Ground spoke about the normative benefits of the embeddedness of the Voluntary Principles across many operations on the ground (“the intel microchip in everyone’s computer”) and raised important emerging issues for the VPI such as policies regarding sharing security data with governments and the role of companies in humanitarian emergencies. The Cobalt Initiative expressed interest to have the VPI come back in 2026 and present the new guidance on security and human rights due diligence once it is finalized.

About the Voluntary Principles Initiative: Created in 2000, the Voluntary Principles is a multi-stakeholder initiative that promotes the implementation of a set of principles that guide companies on providing security for their operations while respecting human rights.

About the Cobalt Learning Group: Created in 2022, the Cobalt Learning Group (CLG) supports members of the Cobalt Institute in strengthening their environmental and human rights due diligence practices, aligning with international frameworks, regulation and advancing a just transition for the cobalt industry. The CLG offers companies a blend of expert guidance, insights from guest speakers, and peer learning among cobalt practitioners. Through monthly news e-digests, regulatory briefings, thematic deep-dives, and in-person workshops, participants stay ahead of evolving legislation, examine emerging challenges, and exchange practical approaches to responsible sourcing.