OECD Guidelines for Multi­na­tion­al Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct

Date of Adoption:
8-Jun-23

The Guidelines are voluntary recommendations from governments to multinational enterprises, outlining principles of responsible business conduct aligned with international standards and laws. While not legally binding, some aspects may also be regulated by national legislation or international agreements.

The adoption of the Guidelines in 1976, and their subsequent updates, reflect increased demand on business to follow principles and standards on responsible business conduct. The updated Guidelines were build on a decade of experience since the previous full review in 2011, aiming to respond to urgent social, environmental and technological challenges.

Key updates include:

• Climate & Biodiversity Alignment
  Enterprises are encouraged to align their operations with globally recognized climate and biodiversity goals.
• Technology & Data Due Diligence
  New expectations cover the responsible development, financing, sale, licensing, trade, and use of technology-including data collection and usage.
• Product & Service Impact Management
  Enterprises should assess and manage the impacts and relationships tied to how their products and services are used.
• Protection of Vulnerable Groups
  Enhanced safeguards for individuals and communities at risk, especially those who raise concerns about business conduct.
• Transparency in Responsible Conduct
  Updated guidance on how companies should disclose information related to their responsible business practices.
• Anti-Corruption Measures
  Due diligence requirements now extend to all forms of corruption, reinforcing ethical business behaviour.
• Responsible Lobbying
  Enterprises are advised to ensure that lobbying efforts are transparent and consistent with the principles of the Guidelines.
• Strengthening National Contact Points (NCPs)
  Improved procedures to boost the visibility, effectiveness, and consistency of NCPs across countries.