Sustainable value chains: European Parliament gives final endorsement to Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive

Brussels/Brno - Four months after the announcement of a political agreement by negotiators from the European Parliament and the Council of the EU, and after a severe reduction of the number of companies covered last March, the European Parliament gave today (April 24) its final approval to the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). Members of the Parliament showed strong support for the proposal, with 374 votes in favour, 235 votes against and 19 abstentions.. This vote marks the culmination of a 4-year process to develop a common European framework on responsible business conduct that contributes to fairer and more resilient global value chains while providing a level playing field for European companies.

“Today’s positive vote paves the way for the Directive to become law, marking a shift to binding due diligence expectations in Europe and beyond. After months of uncertainty, this outcome provides the necessary clarity on the path ahead for European businesses and is a step  towards more responsible business conduct”, said Daniel Torán, Policy Officer at Frank Bold. “In the coming years, we look forward to collaborating with other stakeholders to ensure an adequate transposition and implementation.” 

Despite the watering down introduced by Member States after the political agreement in December, Members of the European Parliament decided to endorse the text put forward by Council. Frank Bold welcomes this decision and we now call on the Belgian Presidency of the Council to proceed to a swift confirmation by Member States.