Worker participation is often overlooked as a strategy for building a competitive, sustainable business that can keep up with rapidly evolving social and legal standards in global supply chains. Even in countries where workers’ rights to freedom of association (FOA) are extremely limited due to national laws or the lack of government enforcement, corporations can still ensure workers in their supply chain have access to effective grievance mechanisms and systems that ensure workers have a say in workplace matters.
The European Union (EU) reached a historic deal on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (EU CSDDD). For the first time, large companies and those in high-risk sectors will be required to implement risk management systems to address their adverse impacts on people, communities, and the environment if they wish to do business in the EU market.
We’re thrilled to announce the addition of Elizabeth Akanbombire and Minal Patel Davis to Verité’s board. Their profound expertise and experience in collaborating with key stakeholders to pioneer innovative solutions for issues such as forced labor, child labor, human trafficking, gender-based violence, and good governance will play a vital role in steering Verité toward deeper impact.
The United States and other governments are creating laws and regulations to require more effective management and prevention of these risks by those who sell goods and services to the government and by those who import goods into the US and other countries. As a result, government officials of many types – from contracting and procurement officials to Congressional staff – are increasingly engaged in matters related to labor and human rights risks in global supply chains.
