European Commission proposes ban on forced labor products

The European Commission on Wednesday proposed a ban on products made using forced labor in the European Union.File photo of Patrick Seager/EPA-EFE

It is not targeted to a specific company or industry.

“The international community has committed to eliminating forced labor by 2030,” the report said.

“However, its use remains widespread. The International Labour Organization estimates the number of forced labourers globally at 27.6 million.”

Most of the forced labor occurs in the private economy, although some is imposed by states, the report said.

Under the proposal, EU member states would be responsible for implementing the rules using a risk-based enforcement approach, which would be phased in over time.

National authorities in each country will base their decisions on a number of different sources of information, including forced labour risk databases focused on specific products and geographic areas.

If authorities find forced labor, they will order the withdrawal of products that have been placed on the market and ban their exports.

“This proposal will have a real impact on tackling modern slavery that affects millions of people around the world. Our aim is to eliminate all products made from forced labour from the EU market, wherever they are made,” EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis said in a press release.

“Our ban will apply to domestic products, exports and imports. Authorities and customs will work hand in hand to make the system more robust. We seek to minimise the administrative burden on businesses and provide a tailored approach for SMEs. We It will also further deepen cooperation with global partners and international organizations.”

The proposal will now be discussed by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union before it can be enacted. It will apply within 24 months of entry into force.