The organisations, amfori, Cascale, Ethical Trade Initiative (ETI), Ethical Trade Norway, ETI Sweden, Fair Labor Association, Fair Wear Foundation, the German Partnership for Sustainable Textiles, Green button and the Social & Labor Convergence Program (SLCP) – representing over 8,000 member companies and affiliates – made the call ahead of the upcoming EU negotiations on the EU Omnibus proposal.
They say watering down the EU Omnibus proposal must not compromise standards and want them to align with programmes including the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and ILO Conventions.
“Risk-based due diligence makes business sense as it allows prioritising action where it matters most,” the statement reads. “It enables companies to prioritise risks and therefore manage them effectively, build resilient supply chains, and contribute meaningfully to the EU’s climate and social goals.”
Recommendations to EU policymakers on Omnibus proposal
The organisations have outlined three key recommendations for EU policymarkers, including:
- Embed a risk-based approach
A risk-based approach should be the foundation of due diligence and reporting obligations. This enables companies to prioritise the most severe and likely risks to people and the environment, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model.
- Strengthen collaboration across supply chains
Empower companies to work closely with their suppliers across the supply chain. Moving away from a rigid cap will foster transparency, responsible business practices and meaningful stakeholder engagement.
- Ensure legal certainty and policy stability
Clear, stable regulations are essential for businesses to plan, invest and engage confidently with global partners.
The signatories reaffirm their commitment to advancing responsible business conduct in global supply chains. They believe that simplifying due diligence and reporting requirements can be achieved without compromising the spirit of international standards.
