The tracker · Netherlands
The first European child labour due diligence statute, adopted in 2019 yet still awaiting entry into operation.
Adopted in 2019 but never brought into operation; Dutch policy now waits on CSDDD transposition.
In plain language
The Dutch act would require companies serving Dutch consumers to declare that they exercise due diligence to prevent child labour in their supply chains, investigate reasonable suspicions and adopt action plans. It was adopted in 2019 but never brought into operation through the required implementing decisions.
Successive Dutch governments shifted attention to a broader responsible business conduct bill and then to the CSDDD, leaving the child labour act as a legislative landmark rather than an operating regime. It remains on the tracker because its adoption changed the European debate and because formal repeal has not occurred.
Obligations
Covered companies would file a declaration confirming child labour due diligence with the designated regulator.
Where a reasonable suspicion of child labour exists, companies would investigate and adopt a remediation plan.
Timeline
Senate adopted the act.
Implementing measures deferred while a broader RBC bill was debated.
Dutch due diligence policy consolidated around CSDDD transposition.
Changelog
Status reviewed; no implementing decree progress to report.
Sources