Combating forced labour: EU commitment to human rights and corporate responsibility

The EU Action Plan for Human Rights and Democracy 2020–2024 sets as a key priority the promotion of the elimination of forced labour and the implementation of international standards for responsible business conduct. These standards include the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.

The international community has set the ambitious goal of eliminating forced labour by 2030. Despite ongoing efforts, the use of this form of exploitation still remains widespread. According to recent estimates by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), some 27.6 million people worldwide are forced to work in forced labour conditions. This practice is punishable under Directive 2011/36/EU on preventing and combating trafficking in human beings and protecting victims.

The international and European regulatory framework places great emphasis on the responsibility of companies to ensure respect for human rights throughout the supply chain. EU member states are therefore called upon to implement effective measures to monitor and ensure that companies operate in accordance with these standards, thus preventing forced labour and other forms of labour exploitation.