The European Union has approved new corporate responsibility regulations aimed at combating labor and environmental abuses.

Despite initial resistance and concerns of the rules being too diluted, the directive found support after several compromises.

Energy Minister Ebba Busch, initially opposed, now endorses the regulations, citing significant improvements.

Critics argue the rules should cover more companies, but acknowledge the legislation as a crucial milestone.

The regulations will apply to companies with over 1,000 employees, with phased implementation starting in three years.