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What’s New
Although there are many voluntary standards and codes of conduct related to corporate social responsibility, the OECD Guidelines are the only comprehensive code multilaterally endorsed and adopted by governments. The Guidelines' recommendations on corporate economic, environmental and social behaviour express the shared values and commitment of 44 countries that are the source of most of the world's direct investment flows and home to most multinational enterprises.
As an adhering country to the Guidelines since 1976, Canada’s National Contact Point has been responsible for promoting awareness of the Guidelines, and for handling inquiries and assisting in resolving issues that arise concerning specific instances of business conduct. This session will feature a short presentation by Canada’s NCP to inform you of the NCP’s ongoing role, and stimulate exchange on the issues.
We ask that you confirm your participation by e-mail at ncp.pcn@international.gc.ca (or by phone at (613) 944-2777) or indicate if you wish to participate by teleconference. A copy of the upcoming agenda will be made available shortly.
Outreach
The National Contact Point (NCP) held its second annual information session for stakeholders on November 19, 2012 in Ottawa.
The National Contact Point (NCP) held an information session for stakeholders on October 27, 2011 at the DFAIT headquarters in Ottawa. The information session provided an opportunity for stakeholders to learn about the OECD Guidelines and their recent update as well as the Canadian NCP and its operations.
Publications
On May 9, 2011, the Canadian National Contact Point for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises issued:
On May 3, 2011, the Canadian National Contact Point for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises issued:
- A Summary of its Initial Assessment in the matter relating to the Oyu Tolgoi Project in Mongolia
- Final Statement in the matter relating to the Marlin Mine in Guatemala
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises Review: Call for Stakeholder Input
The Government of Canada is in the process of developing its position on the terms of reference of a possible review of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. This is the first phase of a twofold consultation process. Should the Investment Committee (IC) of the OECD decide to proceed with a review of the Guidelines, based on adhering countries’ consensus, a second consultations round will take place.
Towards the development of its position, the Government of Canada seeks stakeholders’ views regarding the terms of reference which would frame an eventual OECD Guidelines review.
For further information, please visit the following Web site:
Contact point:
Bianca Bohanan
Trade Commissioner, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
125 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0G2
Telephone: 613-944-2777
Facsimile: 613-944-1516
E-mail: bianca.bohanan@international.gc.ca
There are now 41 countries that adhere to the OECD Guidelines for MNEs. The two countries to adhere most recently are Egypt (2007) and Peru (2008). For the list of adhering countries and NCPs, visit National Contact Points.(PDF* 327 KB)
The Guidelines have been reviewed four times since their inception in 1976, with the most recent review completed in 2000. Governments through their NCPs continue to be responsible for promoting the Guidelines, handling enquiries and helping to resolve issues that arise in specific instances.
Guidance on implementation has been provided in the form of a non-binding procedural guidance document (see OECD Guidelines for MNEs: Decision of the Council).
NCPs are also responsible for promoting the OECD Risk Awareness Tool for MNEs in Weak Governance Zones. It is recommended that companies working in weak governance zones consult the OECD Risk Awareness Tool for MNEs.
In Canada
Canada's NCP is an interdepartmental committee now chaired at the Director General level by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. In April 2008, the role of the NCP secretariat was transferred from the Investment Trade Policy Division to the Trade Commissioner Service Support Division, which gives it access to the vast network of the Trade Commissioner Service's offices in Canada and abroad that can assist in promoting the Guidelines and responding to enquiries.
To assist any individual, organisation, or community (“stakeholder”) that believes an MNE's actions or activities have breached the Guidelines and wishes to lodge a formal request for review regarding a “specific instance” with Canada’s NCP, a new guidance document is now available titled Information Requirements for Raising a Specific Instance.
* If you require a plug-in or third-party software to view this file, please visit the alternative formats section of our help page.
