The guiding principlesof Germany’s Council Presidency are as follows:

- overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic permanently, as well as the economic recovery

- a stronger and more innovative Europe

- a fair Europe

- a sustainable Europe

- a Europe of security and common values

- a strong Europe in the world...

The pandemic is turning the spotlight on the vulnerabilities of global supply chains and the people working in them. A comprehensive risk management system for enterprises that is in line with the global agenda for sustainability can help to increase the resilience of supply chains. Greater support for partner countries in the area of development cooperation policy is also necessary. We are committed to an EU action plan to strengthen corporate social responsibility in global supply chains that promotes human rights, social and environmental standards and transparency, and which takes the experiences and lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic into account. This supports the coherent implementation of the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights of the United Nations and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises...