The implementation of environmental and social standards is becoming an increasingly relevant aspect in business relationships across global supply chains. Many German and European companies face legal obligations to implement human rights and environmental due diligence processes and to collaborate with companies in their supply chains on relating topics. In many cases, buyers consider the implementation of the ESG requirements to be an important requirement for the (continuation of the) business relationship.
This training supports exporters from the Western Balkans to implement an effective ESG management system in preparation for growing buyer expectations and to position themselves as the supplier of choice.
Module 1: Putting Human Rights Due Diligence into Practice
Implemented by: German Helpdesk Business and Human Rights
Date: 28 August 2025
Time: 10:00–12:00 (UTC+2)
This free-of-charge online training will guide you through the practical aspects of implementing human rights and environmental due diligence. Register here for Module 1.
Module 2: Follow-Up In-Depth Training with Coaching
Take your commitment to the next level by joining our exclusive 10-hour in-depth training, specifically designed for companies eager to establish robust risk management systems, Action Plans, and Codes of Conduct. This opportunity includes individual coaching sessions with experienced professionals, tailored to your company’s specific needs.
In the three sessions, selected companies will receive targeted support in:
Establishing their own risk management system
1st Session: 17 September 2025, 10:00–12:00 (UTC+2)
Defining individualized Action Plans
2nd Session: 23 September 2025, 10:00–12:00 (UTC+2)
Drafting their own Code of Conduct
3rd Session: 30 September 2025, 10:00–12:00 (UTC+2)
This training is available to 30 small and medium-sized companies in the Western Balkans, especially for those in the agricultural, food, and related sectors (cosmetics, flowers, wood, pharmaceutics, etc.). Apply here for Module 2. Businesses from other sectors are also welcome to apply.
Info Session: 1 September 2025, 13:00–13:30 (UTC+2) — structure and expectation. Register via this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/AggHGRpESg2YdkjjnFiS9g
Cost: €50 per participant. Apply by submitting your application form and company profile. Selected companies will be notified.
Module 3: In-Person Roundtable
Organised by the Responsible Business Hub, this in-person roundtable and follow-up forum to Modules 1 and 2 will capture companies’ and organizations’ regional perspectives, opportunities, and challenges with ESG.
Date: October 2025 (exact date TBC)
Location: Serbia
Cost: €50 per participant. If you participate in Module 2 and Module 3, the cost amounts to €80 per participant.
Contact: Tanja Lindell — tanja.lindell@pks.rs
Funding
The trainings are funded by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.
If you have any questions with regards to the trainings, kindly contact Anna Peter anna.peter@giz.de