Human rights due diligence: legislation guidance

As regulatory expectations around human rights due diligence (HRDD) rapidly increase, companies face growing pressure to take meaningful action to prevent and address risks to people in their value chains. 

From the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) to Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act and the UK's Modern Slavery Act, laws are emerging — and strengthening — across multiple jurisdictions. For business leaders across all sectors, adapting to this evolving landscape is no longer optional. 

Female garment worker in factory India

ETI is the leading expert on HRDD

For 25 years we have worked with companies, trade unions and NGOs to address human rights risks in global supply chains. We are uniquely positioned to help companies implement HRDD in a meaningful, credible and accountable manner. 

We support companies to stay ahead of the curve. Our practical guidance, peer learning, and expert-led interventions help members move beyond compliance — and towards a genuinely responsible business approach. 

How ETI supports your due diligence journey 

ETI has been at the forefront of human rights due diligence for over two decades. Our tripartite approach — bringing together business, trade unions, and NGOs — means we know what credible due diligence looks like in practice. 

We help members build and improve HRDD systems that are grounded in international standards, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and OECD Guidelines. Our support focuses on what works — not just what looks good on paper. 

As legislation becomes more demanding, membership of ETI offers a practical way to demonstrate that your company is taking responsible business seriously and investing in continuous improvement. 

Why join ETI? 

  • Show leadership — ETI membership helps position your company as a leader in  responsible sourcing 
  • Be legislation-ready — Our expert guidance ensures your HRDD approach evolves in line with emerging legal requirements 
  • Learn with others — Access a unique forum to share challenges and solutions with peers, workers' representatives, and civil society 
  • Strengthen your systems — Embed responsible business practices throughout your operations and supply chains 

Businesses that lead on human rights are not only protecting workers — they’re future-proofing their operations. As new legislation accelerates around the world, ETI membership is a smart step for companies who want to be credible, capable, and move beyond compliance. 

Giles Bolton - Executive Director, ETI  

Marble quarry

Tailored support for members 

Our members benefit from resources and advice tailored to their sector, operating context, and maturity level. Whether you're just beginning to build a due diligence process or need to test and improve existing systems, ETI offers actionable tools and insights — grounded in real-world supply chain experience. 

Part of a wider expertise offer 

Human rights due diligence is a foundational part of ETI’s broader support for companies striving to embed ethical and sustainable practices. Explore our other areas of expertise: 

  • Climate change and just transitions 
  • Gender in supply chains 
  • Worker representation 
  • Forced labour 
  • Purchasing practices