Social and Human Rights
We help you identify risks and opportunities arising from the increasing focus on social and human rights issues
Our multi-disciplinary team can advise clients on managing these critical stakeholder relationships in a socially responsible way, to enhance their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance.
With specialist lawyers from around the world, we combine local legal knowledge with an international perspective to advise on a wide range of social issues. These include:
- Human rights, forced labour, and modern slavery
- Safe, modern and sustainable employment conditions
- Diversity and inclusion in the workplace
- Compliant internal reporting channels (whistleblowing)
We also work closely with clients to help transform and restructure their corporate and operational structures to become more sustainable.
Human Rights, Forced labour, and Modern Slavery
Human rights protection and the eradication of forced labour are not only moral imperatives but also legal requirements under evolving international and European Union (EU) regulations.
Human rights protect individual dignity and freedom, making the eradication of forced labour and modern slavery essential. Forced labour is a severe human rights violation, affecting an estimated 27.6 million people globally in 2021 (ILO). It undermines fair competition, perpetuates poverty, and fuels human trafficking. Ending forced labour is a global priority, reflected in international commitments like the UN Sustainable Development Goal 8.7 and EU policies, as it is crucial for justice, sustainable development, and respect for human dignity. At CMS we are committed to help eradicating forced labour and ensure the respct for all human rights.
The United Kingdom has been a forerunner in legislating against modern slavery with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. This Act requires certain businesses to publish annual statements on the steps they are taking to ensure that slavery and human trafficking are not taking place in their own business or supply chains.
More recently, within the EU a groundbreaking regulation aimed at eradicating forced labour from the EU market has been approved and published in December 2024. The European Forced Labour Regulation (EUFLR), which aligns with international standards such as the ILO conventions, seeks to prohibit the placing, making available, and export of products made with forced labour within the EU. It underscores the EU's commitment to promoting human rights and corporate sustainability due diligence standards.
How CMS team can help?
CMS provides comprehensive legal assistance to both EU and non-EU companies in navigating through Human Rights, Forced Labour and Modern Slavery challenges. CMS can provide immediate, coordinated assistance through a single point of contact. Our lawyers are deeply experienced in sustainability and ESG-related regulations across diverse markets, and our proactive approach includes monitoring regulatory developments globally, keeping clients informed, and delivering strategic, industry-leading guidance wherever it is needed.
How CMS can help
Explore our CMS Expert Guide on Human Rights and Forced Labour covering 27 jurisdictions and letting you compare local laws and requirements.
Comprehensive analysis of the Modern Slavery Act and new EU regulation on forced labour and its implications for your business.
Tailored advice on compliance strategies to ensure your products meet the regulatory requirements.
Assistance in developing and implementing robust due diligence processes to identify and mitigate risks on human rights, forced labour or modern slavery in your supply chain.
Conducting due diligence assessments to identify potential risks of modern slavery and forced labour in your operations and supply chains.
Providing detailed reports and recommendations to address and mitigate identified risks.
Guidance on integrating due diligence practices in line with international standards such as the ILO, OECD, and UN guidelines.
Customized training programs for your staff on the existing regulations and best practices for compliance.
Workshops and seminars to enhance your team’s understanding of modern slavery and forced labour risks and due diligence requirements.
Ongoing support and updates on regulatory changes and compliance strategies.
Assistance in mapping and monitoring your supply chain to ensure compliance with the existing regulations.
Development of supplier codes of conduct and contractual clauses to enforce compliance with modern slavery and forced labour prohibitions as well as human rights protection.
Support in establishing effective communication and cooperation mechanisms with suppliers and other stakeholders.
Immediate support in case of suspected or confirmed instances of modern slavery of forced labour in your supply chain or breach of human rights.
Development and implementation of remediation plans to address and rectify modern slavery or forced labour issues.
Strategic advice on managing public relations and maintaining business reputation during and after compliance crises.
At CMS, we understand the significant impact these Regulations will have on businesses operating within and outside the EU, and we are here to help you navigate these changes effectively.
Please contact any of our Social / Human rights lawyers to find out how we can help you.
Legal experts for Social / Human rights
Social and Human Rights
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