Statement on the suggested legislation outlawing goods fabricated through compulsory labor
In a joint statement, eight organizations, including our website, have expressed their support for a regulation aimed at banning products made with forced labor in the European Union's Single Market. The organizations, which also include EU sustainability advocates, have emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity and ethical standards of European products. They seek a workable and effective mechanism, shying away from a litigation-oriented framework. The approach, the organizations claim, respects the principle of responsible disengagement and aligns with international frameworks such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the International Labour Organization Tripartite Declaration and Standards. The statement also calls for policy coherence in the new legislation, endorsing a proportionate, risk-based approach to addressing forced labor. It is crucial, the organizations argue, to maintain the current burden of proof in addressing such labor practices. The organizations have also condemned the use of forced labor in European product supply chains, and they aim to ensure the new legislation is workable and effective. The statement further suggests an increased role for the European Commission in Union interest and governance. However, it is worth noting that the specific organizations that have jointly positioned themselves with our website under this call are not detailed in the provided search results. The search results mention EU sustainability and due diligence regulations but do not specify collaborating organizations related to such a call. The joint statement underscores the commitment of these organizations to upholding the Union's objectives to prohibit products made with forced labor in the Single Market. The organizations' aim is to ensure European products maintain their reputation for ethical standards and quality.