Rio Tinto sponsors 2010 Human Rights Medal

Rio Tinto is the proud sponsor of the 2010 Human Rights Medal to be awarded in Sydney today to coincide with International Human Rights Day.

The Human Rights Medal, which is awarded by the Australian Human Rights Commission, recognises the outstanding contributions by an individual for the protection and promotion of human rights, social justices and equality in Australia.

The Australian Human Rights Commission has celebrated the achievements of individuals and communities in the field of human rights through the annual awards hosted since 1987.

Rio Tinto managing director Australia David Peever said Rio Tinto is pleased to support the Human Rights Medal as it represents strong values shared by the Rio Tinto Group, being integrity, equality and appreciation for diversity in our community.

"Rio Tinto supports the dignity, wellbeing and rights of our stakeholders. Our work with communities and employees already contributes to human rights and we comply as a matter of course with the laws where we operate. In 2000 we became a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact and 10 years on we remain committed to its principles, which include human rights" Mr Peever said.

Ms Catherine Branson QC, Australian Human Rights Commission President said: "Rio Tinto’s sponsorship of the 2010 Human Rights Medal is a demonstration of the company’s commitment to raising awareness and standards of human rights across Australia. We are very grateful for the support of Rio Tinto"

Rio Tinto adopts a partnership approach to address social and environmental issues, working with various groups and organisations to better understand issues in the community. Rio Tinto negotiates formal, binding agreements and funding partnerships with the communities in which it operates, to ensure the company leaves those communities better off as a result of its activities.

"We recognise that our work has an impact on the communities where we operate, and so our operations are required to build enduring, mutually beneficial partnerships within their communities" Mr Peever said.

The 2010 Human Rights Medal and other category winners will be announced at a lunch ceremony at the Sheraton on the Park Hotel in Sydney from midday.