The lawsuit brought by an NGO against Mercedes, BMW and Audi illustrates the need for a revised approach to the relationships that companies maintain with their suppliers through their procurement functions. In this respect, I advocate the development of the Regenerative Procurement approach, which makes it possible to renew the ecosystem built around suppliers.
Germany recently introduced the Supply Chain Act, which requires companies to carry out due diligence to prevent human and labor rights violations in their supply chains. This new legislation aims to make companies accountable for their business practices and ensure transparency throughout the supply chain. Several European countries are planning to introduce similar legislation to hold companies accountable under the law.
In the context of the implementation of the « Supply Chain Act » in Germany, some non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have decided to take action to hold companies accountable for their alleged links to human rights abuses.
The introduction of the « Supply Chain Act » in Germany marks an important milestone in corporate accountability for human rights. This law requires companies to conduct in-depth audits of their supply chains to identify potential risks of human rights violations, including forced labor. Companies are also required to report publicly on the measures they are taking to remedy identified problems.
An unnamed NGO has decided to take legal action against Mercedes, BMW and Audi, accusing the automakers of violating the Supply Chain Act by maintaining links with suppliers involved in the use of forced Uighur labor. The NGO claims to have solid evidence to support these allegations, and highlights the importance of corporate responsibility in protecting fundamental rights.
The accusations against Mercedes, BMW and Audi raise crucial questions about ethical business practices and corporate responsibility. As world-renowned automotive manufacturers, these companies have considerable influence over supply chains and are therefore obliged to ensure that human rights are respected at all levels. These allegations of forced labor by Uyghurs highlight the risks that companies now face