Voting shows that reason and humanity can win against the interests of corporate lobbies
We welcome the fact that the member states have come to an agreement – late, but nevertheless. The Supply Chain Act lays the foundation for a more climate-friendly world and the transition to a sustainable economy. It finally offers a legal framework to hold companies accountable that profit from environmental destruction, human rights violations and child labor,” said Anna Leitner, resource and supply chain expert at GLOBAL 2000. “However, we are seriously disappointed with Austria’s voting behavior. The fact that business associations and also Federal Minister Kocher have, for political reasons, so vehemently opposed a law in recent weeks that can not only improve the lives of millions of people in the Global South, but also bring advantages for Austrian SMEs, is one Shame.”
Anna Leitner, resource and supply chain expert at GLOBAL 2000
Vienna/Brussels (OTS) – Although Economics Minister Kocher blocked Austria from approving the EU Supply Chain Act, the directive was adopted today by a majority of member states after weeks of blockages – albeit with major dilutions. This means that the directive can now be voted on in the EU Parliament before the end of the legislative period.
“We welcome the fact that the member states have come to an agreement – late, but nevertheless. The Supply Chain Act lays the foundation for a more climate-friendly world and the transition to a sustainable economy. It finally offers a legal framework to hold companies accountable that profit from environmental destruction, human rights violations and child labor,” said Anna Leitner, resource and supply chain expert at GLOBAL 2000. “However, we are seriously disappointed with Austria’s voting behavior. The fact that business associations and also Federal Minister Kocher have, for political reasons, so vehemently opposed a law in recent weeks that can not only improve the lives of millions of people in the Global South, but also bring advantages for Austrian SMEs, is one Shame.”
More than 15,000 people in Austria and more than 100,000 people across the EU have in the last few months Petitions signed for a strong supply chain law. Also numerous Pursue and business associations across Europe support the directive.
Now the EU Parliament still has to vote on the directive. After the directive has been approved at EU level, national implementation continues. “The member states are now faced with the task of specifically closing loopholes, ensuring access to justice and supporting small and medium-sized companies in particular,” concluded Leitner.
Questions & Contact:
Hannah Keller, GLOBAL 2000 press spokesperson, 0699 14 2000 64, hannah.keller@global2000.at
Anna Leitner, GLOBAL 2000 resource and supply chain spokesperson, 0699 14 2000 22, anna.leitner@global2000.at