The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct, referred to as ‘the Guidelines’, are recommendations on responsible business conduct (RBC) addressed by governments to multinational enterprises operating in or from adhering countries. They provide non-binding principles and standards for RBC in a global context consistent with applicable laws and internationally recognised standards. They aim to encourage positive contributions enterprises can make to economic, environmental and social progress, and to minimise adverse impacts on matters covered by the Guidelines that may be associated with an enterprise’s operations, products and services. The Guidelines are the only multilaterally agreed and comprehensive code of RBC that governments have committed to promoting.
All governments adhering to the Guidelines are required to set up a National Contact Point (NCP). The role of the NCP is to promote the Guidelines and related Due Diligence Guidance and to handle complaints (known as specific instances) of alleged non-observance of the Guidelines. The Ireland NCP can offer a non-judicial grievance mechanism to help parties resolve complaints through a mediation/conciliation platform. This is referred to as the offer of good offices.
2023 update of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct
Watch on YouTube: Updated OECD Guidelines Multinational Enterprises 2023 (YouTube)
Since their introduction in 1976, the Guidelines have been continuously updated to remain fit for purpose in light of societal challenges and the evolving context for international business. The 2023 update reflects a decade of experience since their last review in 2011 and responds to urgent social, environmental, and technological priorities facing societies and businesses.
The updated Guidelines were released on 8 June 2023 within the context of the 2023 OECD Ministerial Council Meeting.
Summary of key updates
National Contact Point