We are witnessing a hijacking. 🚨
Some vocal politicians, backed by some companies, are having a field day.
They are exploiting the shared desire for simpler sustainability laws and a more competitive EU as a pretext to dismantle the sustainability frameworks, principles, and practices that have been built over years.
The things I’ve heard this week—in closed-door sessions, in side conversations, and through other fellow practitioners… 🤯
Suddenly, the narrative from some loud voices seems to be that companies were never supposed to respect human rights in the first place. That internationally recognized human rights don’t have a place in business. That it’s too much for governments to expect companies to play a role in the Paris Agreement. That competitiveness somehow means reverting to an era of unbridled capitalism.
This discourse is extremely dangerous. ⚠️
And what about the ‘process’ being followed - if process it can be called? Equally dangerous.
Think of it this way. Imagine you needed heart surgery.
You’ve been preparing for it. It’s daunting, but you know it’s necessary for long-term health.
Then, the government tells you they’ll simplify the procedure. Sounds good, right? A more efficient surgery and recovery? What’s not to love.
But then you learn who will be in the room making these decision on the simpler procedure: politicians and a handful of doctors who both never believed in heart surgery in the first place.
Would you feel reassured? Wouldn’t you want experienced surgeons in the room? And what about former patients who can share what worked and what didn’t?
This is exactly what’s happening now. The “simplification” of sustainability laws is being decided without the input of those who have spent years implementing sustainability due diligence—companies, practitioners, and experts. Instead, it’s being shaped by people with entirely different agendas. And it’s happening now, before our eyes.
Companies: I am not here being alarmist. I am being realistic 🚨
The writing is on the wall unless we change who is holding the pen—and replace the erasers with many pens that actually work. ✍️
I literally heard from a business association this week that all companies were aligned - even those who had signed letters.
Do not let others take your voice for you to argue for a dismantling of the sustainability framework, in your name.
If you need messages to convey to business associations, EU Commissioners, MEPs, peers and others, here are some key points:
✅ 1. We Support Simplifying Sustainability Laws—But Not at Any Cost
Regulations can be better aligned, and expectations streamlined as businesses scale up implementation. However, simplification must not mean dilution.
🛑 2. Safeguard Key Frameworks—No Political Renegotiation
The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises have guided businesses for years and anchor existing sustainability laws. Many companies have already invested heavily in compliance—reopening these frameworks would create uncertainty, weaken business confidence, and stall investment in responsible value chains.
🌍 3. Sustainability is a Competitive Advantage, Not a Burden
In an era of climate change, environmental crises, and human rights risks, sustainability is integral to business success—and investors, business partners, employees, and consumers demand it. Governments worldwide are strengthening sustainability expectations. Failing to advance now will lead to fragmentation, legal uncertainty, and flawed risk assessment. When implemented effectively, these frameworks will enhance long-term resilience, competitiveness, and value creation for European businesses. The idea that they hinder competitiveness is simply misguided.
🚀 4. Build on Business Practice—Focus on Practical Implementation
Simplification should accelerate implementation, not erase progress. The Commission should focus on practical solutions, such as fast-tracking guidance on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), to enhance efficiency without undermining sustainable business practices.
⚖️ 5. No Need to Reopen Level 1 Legislation—Use Delegated Acts & Guidance
Simplification can happen without reopening primary legislation. Delegated Acts and Guidance offer solutions without the significant risks that come with rewriting agreed laws and diluting established frameworks. Reopening core sustainability rules before they even take effect would set a dangerous precedent and jeopardize business certainty. Stable, consistent policies are critical for long-term investment and Europe’s leadership in the green transition.
🤝 6. Simplification Must Be Inclusive—No Rushed Decisions
Companies, experts, and practitioners—alongside the rights-holders these laws aim to protect—must be at the table shaping solutions. The Omnibus announcement, expected on 26 February, should be delayed if necessary to avoid rushed or poorly designed decisions. Sustainability requires smart, informed policymaking—not shortcuts that weaken Europe’s future.
In short: the Narrative and Process Are Yours to Shape—Or They Will Be Shaped for You
🎤 Mic drop for me.
Over to You 🫵
PS: In honour of the importance of this moment in time, we have not proceeded with ‘business as usual’ this week. Instead, welcome to our Omnibus Special Edition! 🪩
