We, representing a broad coalition of Ukrainian stakeholders, are writing to you at a critical juncture for the future of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) in the European Union.
We understand that the European Parliament is currently formulating its position on the so-called “Simplification Omnibus” proposal, which we are deeply concerned could significantly weaken the CSDDD and undermine its intended goals. We are reaching out to you, a steadfast friend and supporter of Ukraine, to express our strong belief in the importance of a robust CSDDD for Ukraine’s future and to urge the European Parliament to oppose any measures that would dilute its effectiveness.
For Ukraine, currently navigating the immense challenges of war and striving for closer integration with the European Union, the CSDDD is not merely a regulatory matter – it is a crucial instrument for building a resilient, ethical, and prosperous future. We believe a strong CSDDD offers significant benefits for Ukraine in several key areas:
- Supporting Ukraine’s Economic Recovery and Integration with the EU: As Ukraine looks towards rebuilding and strengthening its economy, alignment with EU standards is paramount. The CSDDD promotes responsible business conduct and fair competition, creating a level playing field that benefits Ukrainian businesses seeking to integrate into the EU market. It encourages responsible supply chains and can help Ukrainian companies attract sustainable investments from European partners who increasingly prioritize due diligence and ethical practices. This is especially important for Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts, ensuring they are built on principles of transparency and accountability.
- Attracting Responsible and Long-Term Investment: A strong CSDDD framework in the EU sends a clear signal to international businesses that responsible conduct is expected and valued. This predictability and commitment to ethical standards will make Ukraine a more attractive destination for responsible foreign investment, crucial for our economic recovery and long-term development. Investors seeking to operate ethically and sustainably will be reassured by the EU’s commitment to due diligence, benefiting Ukraine’s efforts to rebuild and modernize its economy.
- Preventing Exploitation and Ensuring Ethical Business Practices in Ukraine: In times of conflict and post-conflict recovery, the risks of exploitation of labor and resources increase. A robust CSDDD can act as a safeguard against unethical business practices in Ukraine, ensuring that companies operating in or sourcing from Ukraine respect human rights, labor standards, and environmental protection. This is vital for protecting Ukrainian workers and resources and building a sustainable and just society.
- Alignment with European Values and Ukraine’s EU Aspirations: Ukraine is committed to becoming a full member of the European Union and sharing its values. Adopting and supporting the principles of the CSDDD demonstrates Ukraine’s commitment to these values, including human rights, sustainability, and the rule of law. A strong CSDDD in the EU strengthens the overall framework of these values, which are fundamental to Ukraine’s European future.
The European Union has consistently shown unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, resilience, and European path. We believe that supporting a strong and effective CSDDD is a logical extension of this support. By ensuring that businesses operating in the EU adhere to high standards of due diligence, the EU can contribute to a more stable, ethical, and prosperous environment for Ukraine as it navigates its future.
We urge the members of the European Parliament to carefully consider the vital importance of the CSDDD for Ukraine and to stand firm against any attempts to weaken it through the Omnibus proposal. We believe that a strong CSDDD is not only beneficial for the EU, but also a crucial tool for supporting Ukraine’s recovery, development, and integration into the European family.
Sincerely,
- Analytical Center of the Agrarian Union of Ukraine
- Alevtina Sanchenko, Head of the Center for Advanced Studies and Cooperation on Human Rights and Economics, Leading Research Fellow of the V.K. Mamutov Institute of Economic and Legal Studies
- Artem Shtanko, bank sector
- Daria Nagaivska, PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher at Aalto University’ School of Business
- ESG Liga
- Iryna Kozachuk, SME
- Julia Brosko, 🇺🇦Marie Claire Business Ukraine
- Kreminska Business Association / Chairman Andriy Symonov
- Maria Vasylechko, legal advisor of PrJSC Enzim
- Office of Sustainable Solutions
- Oksana Medvedska, Executive Director, Confederation of Employers of Ukraine
- Oleksii Orlyk, SME
- Olena Uvarova, PhD, Chair of the International BHR Lab, Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University, Law Group Wageningen University
- Olena Zinchenko, Yaroslav Mudryi National University of Law, Kharkiv, Ukraine
- Serhiy Melnyk, LLC “GRANITE-BUILDING PLATFORMA”
- Snizhana Shevchenko, Software company
- Social Action Centre, Director Irene Fedorovych
- Solomiya Tsebenko, Lviv Polytechnic National University
- Tamara Horbachevska-Konstankevych, Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University
- Tetyana Kryvomaz, Professor, Kyiv National University of Civil Engineering and Architecture
- The Professional Association of Environmentalists of the World (PAEW)
- Ukrainian Human Rights Center
- Yelisieieva Liudmyla/ LLC MAK-PRICE, KIEV
- Yevhenii Shakotko, Responsible Development Office
- Yulia Melnyk LLC “GRANITE PLATFORMA»
- Hanna Hulevska, Zaporizhzhia Institute of Economics and Information Technologies
- Viktor Smorodynskyi, Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University
- Tukhan Ediiev, lawyer