Building a Responsible Future:
Global Child Forum’s Endorsement of the CSDDD

Two weeks ago, the EU Council failed to approve the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) in a setback for people and planet. This Directive was poised to become the first regional law on mandatory corporate due diligence – and one that showed the rest of the world the EU’s commitment to human rights and the environment.

At Global Child Forum, we firmly support the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). We believe this directive marks a critical step forward in elevating and strengthening responsible business practices across the board. By endorsing this directive, we see an unparalleled opportunity to not only raise the bar for corporate accountability but also to address and mitigate the fragmentation resulting from national initiatives. The introduction of a cohesive EU legislative framework promises to level the playing field, enabling us to make significant strides towards the advancement and respect of human rights across all sectors.

In this light, and with tomorrow’s deadline for Brussels to try to address EU Members’ concerns in consultation with Parliament, we call for bold and courageous leadership from both policymakers and the business community. We urge national governments, the EU Commission and the European Parliament to unite around this vital legislation. This is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a moral imperative. The safety and well-being of millions of people hang in the balance.

Regardless of the legislative journey’s twists and turns, our commitment to the respect for human rights, particularly children’s rights, remains unwavering. This commitment is non-negotiable for any responsible business, irrespective of its sector or country of operation.

We are part of a strong movement towards a more responsible and sustainable future, and we must maintain our momentum, undeterred by legislative challenges. We need to persist in our collaborative efforts to achieve consensus, addressing the call from many businesses for standardised requirements and a level playing field.

The CSDDD offers us a blueprint for progress, and we stand ready to support and advocate for its effective implementation. Together, we can ensure that respect for children’s rights is not just an aspiration but a universal business standard.

Updated 18 March

The EU Council has now approved the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). This marks a significant milestone for corporate accountability, paving the way for responsible business conduct across EU Member States. While the directive has limitations – applying primarily to large companies – it sets a crucial foundation for human rights due diligence in global supply chains.

Though the CSDDD is a step forward, it’s important to recognise that responsibility for respecting human rights extends beyond its scope. The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights remain essential for best practices in this realm.

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Linda Ravin Lodding

Head of Communications, Global Child Forum

+46 72 387 0248

linda.lodding@globalchildforum.org