OECD Guidelines: What are they and how can they help you?

The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises make clear what the Dutch government expects from companies in the area of corporate social responsibility (CSR). These guidelines apply specifically to international business and are valid for 48 other countries.

The guidelines offer tools for companies to conduct their business in a socially responsible manner internationally. This specifically concerns issues such as human rights and the environment. The theme of chain responsibility also plays a role in this.

About 35 percent of Dutch businesses have currently endorsed the OECD guidelines. The government aims to increase this to 90 percent in 2023. To achieve this, a lot will be done in the coming period to provide information and generate attention.

For example, VNO-NCW and MKB-Nederland, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are organizing a webinar on Wednesday, November 4. This webinar will serve as support for companies that want to implement the guidelines and have additional questions about this. You can register via the website from VNO-NCW. 

In addition, the Dutch government has decided to renew the policy on Corporate Social Responsibility (ICSR). An important part of this is the introduction of a so-called due diligence obligation, probably at European level. 

The government wants to increasingly establish the minimum standard for international CSR in law. These OECD guidelines also fit into this framework. You can read more about the renewal of the CSR via the website of the central government. 

FHI also advocates nationally for a level playing field and sustainability. The OECD guidelines are of great importance in the context of the energy transition and CSR. Want to know more about our spearheads? View our Technology Manifesto.