Reacting to today’s publication by the European Commission of a “simplification” Omnibus proposal which envisions damaging changes to key EU sustainability laws, including the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), Amnesty International’s Secretary General, Agnès Callamard, said:
“Confronted with growing recognition of the many human rights abuses taking place in the value chains for everyday products, and corporations’ impact on worsening climate disasters, the EU should look to raise standards, not weaken them. The sheer volume and scope of proposed changes to these vital laws are completely at odds with Europe’s green ambitions and its climate action commitments. Eroding the very core of the laws intended to promote responsible business practices and sustainable investment, corporate accountability and transparency, at a time when these are vitally needed, would be unbelievably shortsighted and outright dangerous.
“If implemented, the proposed changes could render these instruments no more valuable than the paper they’re written on. Particularly alarming are the amendments envisioned to civil liability provisions, due diligence obligations, and climate transition plans, among others. As it stands, the proposal would also postpone by one year the timeline for EU Member States to reflect the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive in their national laws.
The sheer volume and scope of proposed changes to these vital laws are completely at odds with Europe’s green ambitions and its climate action commitments.
Amnesty International’s Secretary General, Agnès Callamard
“It is not too late to block the proposal and ensure these laws are protected. The Council of the EU and the European Parliament must show strong leadership and avoid undermining precious human rights, environment and climate protections.”
Background:
Last month, Amnesty International together with 170 organizations raised concerns about the proposed Omnibus in a joint statement. The Omnibus covers key sustainability laws passed under the EU’s Green Deal including the CSDDD, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), and the Taxonomy Regulation.
