How can we prevent a race to the bottom in global supply chains?

In recent years, sustainability and ESG standards have been an integral part of regulations and business communications, even if they have not always been incorporated centrally. At the very least, they have been part of a narrative of being a desired aim. However, narratives have changed drastically in recent months. There are reports about proactive deregulation on environmental and human rights issues in the US. There is severe preoccupation that narratives of simplification, in a context of greater economic insecurity, are being used as a vehicle for long-term deregulation. While many emphasise that due diligence regulations and on-the-ground regulation are key to supply chain security, trust, and support from the local population, others argue that the regulatory burden on companies is the key obstacle to economic success. In the context of militarisation and geopolitical changes the environmental and human rights impact of business activities is fading into the background, despite knowledge of the triple planetary crises and the extractive sector's poor track record regarding human rights. In this context, it is important to consider what measures are in place to prevent serious harm to our ecosystems, which form the basis of life and human rights. 

We want to discuss:

Which instruments have been proven effective in practice, and how can we ensure that these effective tools remain in place in the current setting? What are the ways to keep them or even strengthen them?

With:

• Prof. Dr. Jelena Bäumler, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Centre for European and International Law
• Julie Ruaud Assistant to Majdouline Sbaï, MEP, Greens
• Craig Bradshaw, Inclusive Development International, Southeast Asia Legal Coordinator

Moderation: Johanna Sydow, Heinrich-Böll-Foundation Berlin, Head of International Environmental Policy Division

Information: Annette Kraus kraus@boell.de

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