In a written answer to a parliamentary question from MEPs Anthony Smith and Emma Fourreau (The Left), Commissioner Michael McGrath outlined the European Commission's limited supervisory role under the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) regarding alleged human rights and environmental violations by French multinational Veolia in Colombia. The Commission will not conduct on-site investigations itself, as enforcement powers lie with national authorities.
The answer responds to a follow-up question (E-000745/2026) submitted on 23 February 2026, which sought details on the Commission's capacity to visit sites, meet affected parties, and take concrete action when informed of potential violations by EU multinationals in third countries. The MEPs referenced untreated pollutants and heavy metals discharged into protected wetlands in Barrancabermeja, causing severe health and environmental damage, and threats to whistleblowers.
McGrath clarified that the CSDDD (Directive (EU) 2024/1760) will only apply from July 2029. Under the directive, the Commission is not a supervisory authority; instead, Member States must designate independent national supervisory authorities with investigative and enforcement powers, including the ability to conduct inspections in third countries within their jurisdiction. Companies may also be held liable for damages caused by non-compliance. The Commission's role is limited to supporting consistent application through a European Network of Supervisory Authorities and guidance.
However, McGrath noted that the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) can engage with countries and stakeholders through existing frameworks such as the Multiparty Trade Agreement and its Trade and Sustainable Development Subcommittee. These channels could support supervisory authorities after the directive enters into force. The Commission may also build on existing EU tools and projects to aid due diligence implementation in the EU and third countries.
The answer provides no concrete new commitments or timelines for action on the specific Veolia case, instead reiterating the directive's future framework and the Commission's complementary but limited role. The MEPs' concerns about immediate enforcement remain unaddressed, with the Commission deferring to national authorities and future mechanisms.