EU Statement – UN General Assembly 3rd Committee: Interactive dialoue on human rights and transnational corporations

Chair,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

We thank the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights for its report on labour migration and strongly condemn the widespread human rights violations it documents.

Migrant workers worldwide often face heightened risks of violence and exploitation due to their status, language barriers, limited access to legal services, and lack of awareness of their rights – harms that extend to their families. Women migrant workers, particularly those in domestic and care work, along with other vulnerable groups, frequently endure severe abuse, discrimination, and denial of labour rights and social protection.

The EU and its Member States will continue stepping up action to uphold international law and human rights, including in our trade relations and development cooperation, paying particular attention to persons in vulnerable situations, that can be labour migrants. We will continue to offer opportunities for legal pathways to migration while fully respecting national competences. We urge all States to strengthen efforts to prevent and combat trafficking in and smuggling of human beings.

We recognise the profound impact that corporate activities can have on individuals. We remain firmly committed to ensuring that companies uphold their responsibilities to respect human rights. The EU legislation on corporate sustainability due diligence and combating forced labour provide an important basis in supporting these efforts and advancing responsible business conduct. 

We will continue to promote the effective implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, including the ILO’s Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. We also reaffirm our support for the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights and remain constructively engaged in discussions towards a consensus-based global instrument on business and human rights.

Madam Yeophantong,

Could you please elaborate on the Working Group’s cooperation throughout the UN system, including with specialised agencies? Where do you see room for improvement and how can Member States contribute to ensure synergies?

I thank you, Chair.