Why does the MSE Framework matter? 

Meaningful stakeholder engagement is essential for creating positive outcomes for workers. When done right, it ensures that workers' voices are heard, their rights are respected, and their concerns are addressed in a way that leads to real improvements in working conditions. It is a prerequisite for impactful human rights due diligence.  

With the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) now making stakeholder engagement a regulatory requirement in the EU, companies must move beyond surface-level consultations to meaningful, ongoing dialogue 

While international standards and legislation emphasise the importance of stakeholder engagement, they often lack clear, practical guidance. The MSE Framework, along with the upcoming Technical Guidance which will be released mid-2025, bridges this gap, providing companies with an approach to meeting regulatory expectations while driving tangible, positive change for workers. 

Who is this framework for? 

The principles outlined in the MSE Framework are specially designed for companies, providing them with common principles and guidance on how to effectively implement meaningful stakeholder engagement within their human rights due diligence efforts. Beyond this, the Framework can serve as a valuable reference for rights-holders, governments, and other stakeholders, to support their understanding and participation in the due diligence process.  

What is included in the framework? 

The MSE Framework provides:  

• a summary of meaningful stakeholder engagement requirements within the International Soft Law Framework on RBC, covering the purpose of meaningful stakeholder engagement, when it is required in the human rights due diligence process, who qualifies as “stakeholders,” and the different forms of engagement; 

• five key principles for meaningful stakeholder engagement: legitimacy, accessibility, safety, equitability, and respect. 

What’s next? 

Technical Guidance on the practical application of the principles – per step of the due diligence cycle – by companies in the garment sector will be published by mid-year – stay tuned!