Without the Right Partnerships, EU Legislation Is Dead on Arrival

Feb 7, 2021 | Boukje Theeuwes
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Over the course of the next year, we expect the Von Der Leyen Commission, with the backing of the major groupings of the European Parliament, to make strides on European sustainability policies and ethical trading. Such steps forward, which include supporting the recent implementation of the Conflict Minerals Regulation, should form part of a comprehensive regulatory framework that includes the smart mix of measures needed to tackle human rights violations and environmental issues in international supply chains.

However, while a legislative push will pave the way for regulation in Europe it is crucial not to forget the other side of the supply chain: the producing countries whom this legislation will affect, and whose engagement will be key in ensuring that well-intended legislation actually leads to improvement for millions of small-scale miners, smallholder farmers and vulnerable workers in the global South. So while it is tempting to focus on the major trade deals and unilateral actions of the EU’s major branches, if this legislation is to bear fruit, we should not lose focus on the important work needed from Koen Doens, Director-General of International Partnerships, and that needed from DG Trade.