In advance of the United Nations Private Sector Forum 2017, civil society leaders urge businesses and governments to ensure that respect for human rights is an integral part of all actions towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The open letter to United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and UN Private Sector Forum calls on states and businesses to put human rights at the heart of business by implementing the UN Guiding Principles on Business & Human Rights; engaging in collaborative initiatives to tackle systemic challenges; ensuring the regulatory environment protects human rights, including the rights of workers and impacted communities; and being transparent and accountable about their efforts.