In the European Union, a new regulation has been approved that bans products manufactured with forced labor from entering the single market. This rule was passed with a large majority of 555 votes in favor, with only six against and 45 abstentions. The regulation empowers the European Commission to investigate cases of suspected forced labor outside the EU and allows authorities to remove these products from the market or confiscate them at borders.
This rule is part of a series of regulations seeking to rebalance elements of the EU’s trade relations, such as the carbon adjustment mechanism and regulations against deforestation. The directive against forced labor emphasizes the Union’s priority to eradicate forced labor in all forms. This targets countries like China, which may be impacted by restrictions on exports to the EU.
The regulation allows for investigations into suspicious goods, supply chains, and manufacturers, with international cooperation and information playing a crucial role. Companies using forced labor in their supply chains will have their products confiscated from the EU market. This legislation aims to combat forced labor globally and promote fair and sustainable trade policies.
The approval of this regulation marks a significant step in addressing forced labor and modern slavery worldwide. It highlights the EU’s commitment to ethical trade practices and upholding human rights standards. Members of the European Parliament have emphasized the importance of ending exploitation and ensuring a more just and sustainable future through legislation like this one. By taking a firm stance against forced labor, the EU is sending a strong message about the values it upholds in its trade relations.
