fr flag go to the original language article
This article has been translated by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The news agency is not responsible for the content of the translated article. The original was published by AFP.

Environment, forced labor: Paris asks the EU to suspend two directives

by AI | 24.Jan 2025 | Europe in brief AI

On Friday, France asked the European Union to suspend a very ambitious directive on due diligence, requiring companies to ensure respect for the environment and human rights in their production chains worldwide.

The French Minister Delegate in charge of Europe, Benjamin Haddad, leaves after the first cabinet meeting at the Elysée Palace in Paris, January 3, 2025. (Photo: Bertrand GUAY / AFP)

Brussels – The French government wants the EU to agree to suspend the application of the directive on the duty of care, which requires companies to address human and social rights violations (child labor, forced labor, safety…) and environmental damage (deforestation, pollution…).

“Our businesses need simplification, not additional administrative burdens,” said Benjamin Haddad, the deputy minister in charge of Europe, on X.

According to the directive adopted last April, the duty of care must be applied in the value chains of companies worldwide, including their suppliers, subcontractors, and subsidiaries.

Mr. Haddad is also asking the EU to “review” another green directive (CSRD), targeted by many European business leaders, eager to urgently regain a sufficient level of competitiveness against China and the sensational return of Donald Trump at the helm of the United States.

It is a type of green accounting, aiming to harmonize in Europe the way companies publish their “sustainability” data (environmental, social, and governance). (January 24, 2025)