What are the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct?
Argentina adhered to the OECD Declaration on International Investment and Multinational Enterprises in 1997. By adhering to this Declaration, Argentina became a signatory to the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct, which form part of that instrument.
The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises (OECD Guidelines) are recommendations addressed to multinational enterprises operating in or from adhering countries. They contain non-binding principles and standards for Responsible Business Conduct within a global context, consistent with applicable laws and internationally recognized standards. The Guidelines constitute the only comprehensive and multilaterally agreed code of Responsible Business Conduct that governments have committed to promote.
The purpose of the Guidelines is to ensure that the activities of these enterprises are carried out in harmony with government policies, to strengthen the basis of mutual confidence between enterprises and the societies in which they operate, to improve the climate for foreign investment, and to enhance the contribution of multinational enterprises to sustainable development.
According to paragraph 11, Chapter I (Concepts and Principles):
“Governments adhering to the Guidelines will implement them and encourage their use. They will establish National Contact Points whose tasks will be to further the effectiveness of the Guidelines by undertaking promotional activities and serving as a forum for discussion of all matters relating to the Guidelines.”
Furthermore, Part II, paragraph 1, states that:
“Adhering countries shall establish National Contact Points to further the effectiveness of the Guidelines by carrying out promotional activities, handling enquiries, and contributing to the resolution of issues that arise relating to the implementation of the Guidelines in specific instances. Enterprises, employee organizations, other non-governmental organizations, and other interested parties shall be informed of the availability of these facilities.”
The chapters of the Guidelines are as follows:
• Concepts and Principles
• General Policies
• Disclosure
• Human Rights
• Employment and Industrial Relations
• Environment
• Combating Bribery, Bribe Solicitation and Extortion
• Consumer Interests
• Science and Technology
• Competition
• Taxation
Learn About the National Contact Points for Responsible Business Conduct: