EU should pass important law advancing responsible business conduct

In December 2023, EU legislators reached a provisional deal on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). This law would require large businesses to identify and address their impacts on people and planet by implementing a process of human rights and environmental due diligence. However, despite the deal, in recent weeks some EU member states have reportedly reconsidered their support.

The Danish Institute for Human Rights has long called for the development of smart policy and regulatory frameworks to regulate business respect for human rights. The CSDDD is a key initiative capable of harnessing the transformative potential of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights through the development of innovative regulation.   

An EU level mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence law would serve as an international benchmark for advancing responsible business conduct. It would also create a common set of standards to focus efforts and harness the power of business for good. 

We stand with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights, and the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions who recognise the critical need for this landmark piece of legislation. The Institute calls upon the Member States and European legislators to show leadership and not miss this opportunity to secure a future where businesses play their part in addressing the urgent human rights and environmental challenges we face globally.