CGT Statement on European Corporate Accountability Rollbacks – October 15, 2025
In a world grappling with instability, growing inequality, and crises fueled by multinational corporations, building a strong European social model is vital. Though, the European commission is actively dismantling key legislation designed to hold large companies accountable for their social and environmental impact, citing competitiveness concerns.
this deregulation began in February 2025 with the “omnibus package 1,” targeting crucial reporting requirements (CSRD) and the duty of vigilance directive (CSDDD) aimed at preventing human rights and environmental abuses within corporate supply chains. These measures are essential to prevent companies from evading responsibility for harm caused by their operations.
Trade unions,associations,and NGOs have consistently warned against these rollbacks,and have criticized the biased consultation process favoring corporate lobbyists.
Recent developments in the European Parliament’s Legal Affairs Committee (October 13th) demonstrate a dangerous trend. Conservative MEPs threatened alignment with the far-right, resulting in important regressions to the proposed legislation. Key setbacks include:
* Increased Applicability Thresholds: Raising employee and turnover requirements for both reporting and duty of vigilance, considerably reducing the number of companies covered.
* Removal of Climate Transition Plans: Eliminating the requirement for companies to develop and implement plans for a just transition to a lasting economy.
* Abolition of European Civil Liability: Denying victims of human rights and environmental abuses the right to seek compensation at a European level.
These regressions are unacceptable. The CGT, alongside ETUC-affiliated organizations, will continue to fight for corporate accountability, victim recognition, and compensation. We will also continue to expose the deceptive nature of the far-right and the concerning alliances forming between the right and far-right on social and environmental issues.
Montreuil, october 15, 2025
