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Business and human rights

This page has information about business & human rights. The European Union is committed to ensuring that companies active in the EU market respect human rights and the environment wherever they operate.

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Human rights, sustainability and responsible business

The EU recognises the profound impact that corporate activities can have on people and the planet. The EU is committed to ensuring that companies uphold their responsibilities to respect human rights and the environment to harness their potential contribution to sustainable global prosperity.

The EU champions global efforts to promote human rights, sustainability and responsible business conduct in partnership with stakeholders as mandated by the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020-2027.

A comprehensive approach

The EU adopts a comprehensive approach to human rights, sustainability and responsible business through a “smart mix” of policy measures and legislation. Their aim is to improve business practices, prevent harm and improve access to remedies for affected individuals and communities.

The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and the instruments of the OECD and the ILO provide the main international frameworks guiding EU action.

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Policy measures

Policy measures on human rights & business include:

  • National Action Plans: a majority of EU Member States implement National Action Plans on business and human rights, and others are in the process of doing so.
  • Trade agreements: Sustainability clauses within trade agreements concluded by the EU promote the respect for labour rights and the environment and sustainability among trading partners. 
  • Development projects: the EU supports projects promoting responsible business conduct, for example by means of dedicated training, events and technical assistance to governments, businesses, civil society organisations and other stakeholders in partner countries. 
  • Global Gateway projects supported under the Global Gateway Initiative should adhere to high Environmental and Social Standards. 

EU Legislation

In recent years, several pieces of EU legislation of relevance to the advancement of business and human rights policies have entered into force. These laws help ensure that companies treat people fairly both in Europe and around the world. They include: 

Due Diligence legislation

Transparency legislation

Sustainable products legislations

Sustainable raw materials legislations

Human rights in the digital sphere

Strong partnerships 

Strong partnerships are essential to achieving global progress on business and human rights. The EU will continue to engage with other countries, business and civil society to promote the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. This engagement includes:

  • Providing support to help businesses and stakeholders to adapt with the enhanced expectations associated with EU legislation.
  • Dialogue and engagement with governments in partner countries and regions, as well as with businesses, trade unions, and civil society organisations to develop and implement effective business and human rights policies.