"Unions push for stronger human rights protections in the base metals sector," 4 October 2024

Trade unions are intensifying efforts to ensure that human rights due diligence (HRDD) frameworks lead to meaningful improvements in workers' conditions within the base metals sector. At a workshop held in Prague on 3-4 October, IndustriALL Global Union and industriAll Europe gathered union representatives from around the globe to address the industry's notorious risks to workers' rights and safety. Supported by the European Commission, the event focused on how unions can actively shape HRDD processes and hold companies accountable.

With new legal frameworks, like the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), coming into effect, multinationals will face increased pressure to address human rights abuses in their global supply chains. The base metals sector, which includes steel, aluminium, and other essential metals, is particularly prone to violations due to its complex supply chains, hazardous work environments, and exploitative practices in raw material extraction.

Participants at the workshop highlighted that HRDD is a powerful tool capable of transforming corporate approaches to these risks...

As the number of HRDD laws grows across Europe and beyond, trade unions are positioned to play a crucial role in ensuring these frameworks lead to real action. By participating in every stage of the HRDD process—from risk assessments to negotiating action plans—unions can prioritise workers' rights...