4 September 2024, key stakeholders from the European Commission, international organisations, and major industry leaders convened at Residence Palace in Brussels to discuss the implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) across the EU. The meeting highlighted the importance of prioritising efforts, fostering international cooperation, and providing support to businesses as they navigate this transformative legislation.
Allan Jorgensen, Head of the Centre for Responsible Business Conduct at the OECD, emphasised the importance of a focused approach. “Companies are not expected to do everything everywhere all at once,” Jorgensen stated. “They must prioritise their resources and actions effectively. Complex challenges, such as eradicating child labour, cannot be solved overnight. Clear strategies and transparent communication are essential for meaningful progress.”
To support companies in this transition, the Directorate-General for Justice and Consumers (DG JUST) announced the launch of workshops with EU Member States and the introduction of two comprehensive guideline packages in 2026 and 2027. These guidelines will provide clear roadmaps to help businesses align their operations with the directive’s requirements. DG JUST also plans to offer financial support to reduce administrative burdens and foster global cooperation, including partnerships with non-EU countries under the “Team Europe Initiatives.”
Industry leaders, including Monika Dernai (BMW Group), Julian Lageard (Intel Corporation), Pedro Oliveira (Business Europe), Daniel Schönfelder (Responsible Contracting Project), and Dr. Kristin Apffelstaedt (GIZ), stressed the need for clear guidance, consistent regulations, and financial support from the EU.
European Shippers’ Council supports the directive, highlighting its potential to contribute to safer and cleaner production in global supply chains. This endorsement reflects broad support for the directive’s goals of fostering responsible business conduct and sustainable development.