Context
Human rights violations can occur in German companies’ international supply chains. Companies must therefore uphold their responsibility and implement requirements – in line with the National Action Plan for Business and Human Rights (NAP), the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the German Act on Corporate Due Diligence Obligations in Supply Chains (LkSG).
Objective
Human rights in the global supply chains of German companies are better upheld.
Approach
Through industry dialogue platforms, the project creates a trust-based space in which companies can discuss human rights challenges and appropriate solutions. In the sessions, it brings various groups in Germany together: companies, associations, trade unions, non-governmental organisations, initiatives, institutions and ministries. Together, they develop a common understanding of human rights risks, develop implementation-driven guidelines and implement joint pilot projects.
The project launched the industry dialogue sessions with the automotive industry in 2020. The energy sector followed in 2023. The dialogue sessions have been financed by the private sector since 2025 and 2026.
In 2026, the industry dialogue on food retailing and the food industry began. The participating groups develop measures that reduce risks in the companies’ global supply chains.
Last update: August 2026
