It is still unclear whether Austria will agree to the EU supply chain law on Friday. Justice Minister Alma Zadic (Greens) has now called on Economic Affairs Minister Martin Kocher (ÖVP) to show his colors and “show his support for this important European project.”
“We cannot afford to listen to the old thinking that looks for weak reasons why improvements should not happen here,” Zadic said. EU supply chain law stipulates that large companies will be held responsible if they use child or forced labor outside the EU. They must also plan to ensure that the Paris climate goals are met.
NGOs and environmental organizations for this
Zadic is convinced that this would create a level playing field and strengthen small, regional businesses. By Monday, numerous environmental protection organizations, NGOs and some political actors had already campaigned for the supply chain law. They sometimes spoke of respect for human rights, better working conditions and greater prosperity in the Global South.
Chamber of Commerce is against it
The Chamber of Commerce again spoke out against the law. “Companies are largely unable to cope with this,” said Harald Mahrer, president of the Economic Association. ‘Let’s do what is possible, where we can make a meaningful contribution.’ He also referred to declining competitiveness, high costs and requirements.
The Black-Blue coalition in Upper Austria has also spoken out against the supply chain law. It would weaken the economy.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
