New regulations for human rights and social standards in international supply chains will soon come into force in Germany. Now the Minister of Labor is also increasing the pressure internationally.
During the German G7 Presidency, Federal Labor Minister Hubertus Heil spoke out in favor of stronger international human rights standards in the supply chains.
“What is needed is a global understanding of what sustainable corporate action looks like – and how it can be implemented,” said Heil at a digital G7 conference. He campaigned for an international understanding on how victims of human rights violations can better obtain justice. “We will not be successful without more commitment,” said the SPD politician. A clear vote by the G7 is desirable. In July, a G7 summit will take place at Schloss Elmau in Bavaria. In addition to Germany, France, Great Britain, Italy, Japan, Canada and the USA are also members.
Heil told the German Press Agency that the desired binding standards must be accepted by as many states as possible and by decision-makers in business, trade unions and civil society.
In June, a few months before the election, the Bundestag passed a supply chain law. From now on, large companies in Germany should no longer tolerate child or forced labor in their international supply chains. The regulations are intended to help curb poor working conditions at suppliers and producers worldwide. For example, it is about raw material mines in Africa, textile factories in Asia or cotton plantations in India. The law will apply from 2023.
According to the Ministry of Labour, representatives of states, international organizations, trade unions and employers, among others, discussed the topic at the G7 conference. Germany holds the G7 presidency this year.
Source: Stern
Jane Stock is a technology author, who has written for 24 Hours World. She writes about the latest in technology news and trends, and is always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to improve his audience’s experience.
