WP5: Civil society organisations as intermediaries
We are investigating the role of NGOs and trade unions in due diligence processes, comparing their various strategies and approaches.
The voice of employees in HRDD
Global value chains continue to pose significant risks to workers, such as low wages, unsafe working conditions, discrimination and restrictions on trade union freedom. Companies have begun reporting on and establishing HRDD processes to prevent and address these risks and their consequences. However, the effectiveness of due diligence depends not only on companies, but also on the involvement of workers and their representatives. Trade unions possess valuable knowledge of the workplace and can play a crucial role in amplifying workers’ voices within the due diligence process.
Our research focus
In this work package, we are investigating how trade unions seek to position themselves within due diligence processes in practice. Through an action research programme, we are working with trade union representatives to understand how they can utilise new tools, such as sustainability reporting and due diligence obligations, to defend workers’ interests. The research focuses on learning processes, opportunities and challenges, and identifies the strategies trade unions are developing to influence corporate practices. In later phases of the project, we will also examine other aspects of trade union involvement in due diligence.
Publications
Policy briefs
Helsen, L. & Huyse, H. (2026, October). After the CSRD and CSDDD revisions: exploring trade union opportunities. HIVA, KU Leuven.
News
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Navigating the maze: MEDIATE workshop on HREDD tools
On 10 June 2026, MEDIATE brought together a diverse group of stakeholders in Brussels—including representatives from government, business, civil society, academia, and the private sector—to explore how Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD) tools can support meaningful change in practice.
MEDIATE Workshop: the role of intermediaries in times of uncertainty about due diligence
On 3 December 2025, experts from voluntary sustainability standards (VSS), multi-stakeholder initiatives and civil society came together to exchange views on how they navigate an increasingly unpredictable due diligence landscape.
European Parliament event on socially responsible procurement
Policymakers, researchers and SMEs discussed in the European Parliament how public procurement can better strengthen social rights and sustainability.
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