Promotion of Due Diligence in the Protection of Human Rights and the Environment (HREDD)

Initiative for Global Solidarity (IGS)

In 2023 and 2024, the Center for Democracy Foundation, as part of the Initiative for Global Solidarity (IGS) project has been implementing a series of dialogues on the topic of improving human rights due diligence within supply chains, responsible business practices, complaint mechanisms, as well as preparation of a study on the role of trade unions and CSOs in an in-depth analysis of human rights in Serbia. The objective of the project is the promotion of due diligence in the protection of human rights and the environment in global supply chains ( Human rights and environmental due diligence - HREDD).

The German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act entered into force in January 2023, and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) is currently subject to debate within the EU. The law obliges German companies to demand from their direct and indirect suppliers the application of a series of human/labour rights and environmental rules and standards, including the establishment of appeal/complaint mechanisms. Efficient application of new regulations in supplier countries means active participation of the business community, as well as other stakeholders, which include CSOs and trade unions.

Through public debate, we aimed to stimulate an open and constructive dialogue among relevant stakeholders to exchange opinions and experiences, promote responsible business practices, and contribute to raising awareness and knowledge of these acts. Thorough understanding, collaboration, and partnerships among stakeholders are essential to enhance due diligence relative to human rights and responsible business practices in Serbia.

The Study on Trade Union and Civil Society Role in Deep Analysis of Human Rights in Serbia, is to be compiled as part of this project and will focus on complaint mechanisms.

The Initiative for Global Solidarity (IGS) project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Co-operation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by the German organisation for international cooperation (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit - GIZ).