Europe continues to lead the development of ESG regulatory frameworks worldwide, although 2025-2026 has been marked by a 'simplification' process known as the Omnibus packages, which seek to delay, reduce the scope, or simplify key legislation such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).

Despite political turbulence and debates about reducing administrative burdens for companies, the European Union maintains an extensive regulatory framework. The United States has experienced a significant rollback in federal sustainability priorities under the current administration, with the abandonment of SEC climate disclosure rules and withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. Other jurisdictions are following their own regulatory trajectories.

The panel will discuss how boards of directors should face ESG related duties, especially in multi-national environments, and how ESG matters may impact M&A transactions in this continuously evolving world.