(In)Coherence of the EU External Policy Impact on Business and Human Rights Developments in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia

Abstract

The lack of coherence in the impact of the EU's external policy on business and human rights (hereinafter – BHR) development is particularly evident in its relations with post-Soviet countries. This issue has become even more relevant following the European Council’s decision to grant Ukraine and Moldova candidate country status in June 2022. Despite the geopolitical significance of this decision, human rights issues in the document are addressed solely in the context of government institutional reforms, while the Green agenda is focused on energy and the green transition, neglecting human rights and the role of business in these processes. The aim of this article is to examine the role of the EU’s external policy in the development of BHR in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, as well as to determine how this policy influences the balance between economic development and the promotion of responsible business conduct in the region.

The study employs qualitative analysis methods, including an examination of EU documents, policy decisions, and strategies aimed at regulating business conduct and protecting human rights in post-Soviet countries. Additionally, comparative analysis methods were applied to identify the influence of key EU external policy factors on the BHR landscape in the region. The research revealed that the EU policy demonstrates an imbalance between promoting a market economy and encouraging responsible business practices. The absence of clear principles to ensure a balance between economic and social objectives has led to situations where human rights and environmental issues are marginalized, and the role of business in respecting these rights is inadequately considered. Further research could focus on analyzing specific cases of the EU's external policy impact on BHR in each country in the region and on developing recommendations for the EU to enhance its approaches to ensure greater alignment between economic interests and human rights protection.