Responsible business conduct (RBC) sets out an expectation that all businesses – regardless of their legal status, size, ownership or sector – avoid and address negative impacts of their operations, while contributing to sustainable development in the countries where they operate.
Responsible business conduct can enable the creation of equal conditions in global markets, stimulate a dynamic business sector that functions well, and strengthen the contribution of companies to sustainable development outcomes, which includes solutions for combating climate change.
Building a healthy business environment is in the interest and requires the effort of all stakeholders. Governments have the responsibility to protect internationally recognised fundamental rights and improve the functioning of markets through good governance, fair regulations, and transparency. Businesses have the responsibility to adopt responsible business practices that consider the end result and the impact of their activities on society. Workers and civil society have to be involved proactively and constructively and have a key role to play in ensuring accountability.
The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on responsible business conduct provide a comprehensive framework for responsible business behaviour. They are based on the consensus view of the participating governments and are supported by representatives of employers, trade unions, and non-governmental organizations through the OECD Business and Industry Advisory Committee (BIAC), the OECD Trade Union Advisory Committee (TUAC), and OECD Watch.