EU Parliament Takes a Stand Against Forced Labor
In a significant move to uphold human rights within its borders, the European Parliament approved rules on Tuesday that will have a profound impact on the trade of goods associated with forced labor. The new regulations will see a comprehensive ban on the sale, import, and export of goods made using forced labor across the EU.
The move was driven by concerns about human rights abuses in the Chinese province of Xinjiang, where allegations of mistreatment of Uyghur Muslims have drawn international scrutiny. This legislative action mirrors the steps taken by the United States in 2021, aimed at preventing products linked to human rights violations in Xinjiang from entering its market.
China, however, continues to refute these allegations, emphasizing its role as a pivotal supplier of cotton and solar panel materials to the global market. Despite these denials, EU lawmakers have pressed forward with measures to ensure that the bloc’s market remains free of products tainted by exploitation.
The enforcement mechanism of this new rule involves national authorities and the European Commission, who are tasked with investigating suspicious goods and supply chains. These investigations are designed to be swift, with preliminary findings expected within 30 working days. Should any product be found in violation, it will be barred from the EU market and intercepted at the borders.
Portuguese Member of the European Parliament, Maria-Manuel Leitao-Marques, emphasized the significance of this legislation, stating, “Europe cannot export its values while importing products made with forced labor. The fact that the EU finally has a law to ban these products is one of the biggest achievements of this mandate.”
The law received overwhelming support in the Parliament, with 555 votes in favor. It now awaits the final nod from EU countries, which is typically a procedural step without amendments. Once approved, member states will have three years to implement and enforce the law, marking a new chapter in the EU’s commitment to human rights and ethical trade practices.
