Canadian privacy regulators are intensifying scrutiny of platforms used by minors, emphasizing age assurance and youth privacy. Investigations reveal that self-declared age gates and adult-oriented consent language are inadequate. Platforms must adopt layered age verification, youth-friendly privacy communications, and contextual data practices. Enforcement is shaping standards ahead of formal guidance, urging proactive compliance measures.
The Brazilian Data Protection Authority (ANPD) has become an autonomous regulatory agency with expanded powers under Provisional Measure No. 1.317/2025 and Decree No. 12.622/2025. It now oversees digital protections for children and adolescents, including enforcing court orders, setting security standards, and coordinating with other agencies. The ANPD can issue regulations, supervise entities, and ensure proportional obligations for tech providers, prioritizing children’s rights and data protection in digital environments.
On 23 September 2025, the EU Environment Commissioner proposed delaying the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) by another year due to IT system challenges. Originally set for 30 December 2025, the compliance deadline may be extended to 30 December 2026. The delay aims to reduce uncertainty for authorities and stakeholders and ensure the IT infrastructure can handle operational demands. Further discussions among EU institutions are expected before a formal announcement.
The European Supervisory Authorities report steady improvement in principal adverse impact (PAI) disclosures under the SFDR, especially among larger financial groups. However, disclosures often lack quantifiable actions, and “non-consideration” statements remain generic. The ESAs recommend clearer, shorter, and machine-readable disclosures, more proportional requirements, and less frequent reporting to enhance quality and relevance. Further regulatory guidance may follow to address persistent shortcomings.
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower is seeking public feedback on the upcoming Workplace Fairness Bill, which will outline procedures for resolving workplace discrimination claims. Key topics include dispute resolution, tribunal jurisdiction, and union representation. Feedback is due by 19 September 2025.
Until recently, the EU lacked a specific framework governing green claims. A new Directive aiming at “empowering consumers for the green transition” supplements the existing rules on unfair commercial practices to include a new harmonized regime for green claims, applicable from September 2026. Businesses should carefully consider how this new regime will impact their upcoming commercial communications, including voluntary environmental reports and climate targets, to mitigate legal and reputational risks.
In March 2025, the Home Office issued a revised version of its statutory guidance “Transparency in Supply Chains” following the House of Lords Modern Slavery Act 2015 Committee’s report. This marks the first full revision of the guidance in nearly a decade. In an article for Compliance & Risk, Jon Tuck and David Yadid examine the current legal framework under the Act, unpack the key changes introduced by the new guidance, and consider their implications for businesses.
On 11 August 2025, Singapore’s CCCS obtained court orders against immigration consultancy businesses for misleading trade practices. The businesses used deceptive tactics to pressure customers into applying for permanent residency, including false guarantees and scripted sales pitches. The mastermind behind these practices evaded detection by operating through new entities. The court ordered cessation of these practices, public disclosure of the orders, and ongoing reporting to CCCS. This signals CCCS’s strict enforcement stance.
On 13 August 2025, Ukraine approved tenders for two oil and gas blocks—Mezhyhirska and Svichanska – under its Minerals Deal with the US Bidders must meet financial and work commitments, with production sharing terms favouring investors initially. Each PSA lasts 50 years and includes environmental and compliance obligations. This marks a key step in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction and energy strategy.
Singapore is considering age assurance measures for social media platforms to protect younger users online. These may include age verification systems to ensure age-appropriate content. The Online Safety Bill will be tabled soon, and a new commission to support victims of online harm is planned for next year. This aligns with global efforts to enhance digital safety for children.