Eni S.p.A. has filed a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) on October 7, 2024, targeting Greenpeace Italy and ReCommon. This legal action is part of a series of moves by major fossil fuel companies aimed at silencing environmental critics and curbing civil society participation.

Eni S.p.A. released its 2023 Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement, detailing its robust approach to human rights protection. The document outlines comprehensive policies on modern slavery prevention, extensive due diligence in supply chain assessments, strict supplier codes, employee training initiatives, and strong whistleblowing and grievance mechanisms.

Eni’s official Diversity & Inclusion page outlines its long-standing commitment to embracing differences and promoting gender equality, inclusion for people with disabilities, multiculturalism, and age diversity. The company endorses the UN Women Empowerment Principles and supports initiatives such as equal pay for equal work, STEM education for women, and programs fostering intergenerational exchange.

On 11 September 2023, Eni released its ECG Policy outlining a comprehensive framework to respect and promote human rights. The policy establishes due diligence processes, risk assessments, stakeholder engagement, and rigorous measures to mitigate adverse human rights impacts throughout its operations and supply chain. The document emphasizes fair labor practices, non-discrimination, and proactive remediation measures, aligning with international standards such as the UNGPs, OECD Guidelines, and ILO conventions.

Eni is being sued by environmental groups, including Greenpeace Italy and ReCommon, alleging that the company used lobbying and greenwashing tactics to bolster fossil fuel investments despite early internal research revealing the risks of climate change dating back to 1970. The suit claims that these actions misled the public and obstructed progress on necessary climate action.

On May 9, 2023, 12 Italian citizens along with NGOs including Greenpeace Italy and ReCommon filed a lawsuit against ENI S.p.A., accusing the company of failing to implement an adequate decarbonization strategy in line with the Paris Agreement. The claimants argue that this inaction not only contributes to global warming and associated health and human rights risks but also reflects problematic state influence, as ENI’s two majority shareholders— the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance and Cassa Depositi e Prestiti S.p.A.—have dominant control over the company.