OECDLeitsätzen

The OECDLeitsätzen, or OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, are recommendations jointly adopted by 47 governments. These guidelines aim to ensure that the operations of multinational enterprises are compatible with sustainable development and to improve the investment climate by enhancing the certainty and predictability of trade and investment. They offer principles and standards for responsible business conduct in a variety of areas, including employment and industrial relations, human rights, environment, combating bribery, consumer interests, science and technology, competition, and taxation.

These guidelines are voluntary and non-binding, meaning they do not create legal obligations for adhering countries or the companies that choose to follow them. However, they are accompanied by a unique implementation mechanism called the National Contact Point (NCP) network. Each adhering government designates an NCP, which acts as a facilitator to promote the guidelines and to handle complaints filed by individuals or organizations alleging that a multinational enterprise has not observed the guidelines. The NCPs can offer mediation or conciliation services to help resolve disputes.

The OECDLeitsätzen are considered a significant international instrument for promoting responsible business conduct and play a role in fostering a fair and ethical global economy. They are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect evolving global challenges and expectations regarding corporate responsibility.